The Fire Withinنمونہ

FEARLESS READ The book of 2 Timothy is the closest thing we have to hearing the last words of Paul. It is a very personal and honest letter to Timothy, whom he views like a son. He has been imprisoned again for his faith. This time, however, he is in a much harder position. He has been labeled as an evil-doer and one by one he has been abandoned by his close friends. He knows that the time of his death is near. Paul faces death with seriousness but without fear. Even as he writes to Timothy, he is not unforgiving to the people who abandoned him in his trial. His spirit is not broken. This man who could not be intimidated by the Roman Empire in life, is not intimidated by death either. He knows the painful road ahead of him, but he also knows the greater glory that lies ahead. In the same way, we can live a fearless life knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Death, the final enemy, has been defeated when Jesus rose again. Yes, there will be hardship and difficulty in this life. Yes, everyone will die. But we will also rise again. When we believe this, we can have the fearlessness and dedication of Paul knowing that our Lord Jesus has conquered death. REFLECT 1. Why was Paul so unafraid of the pressures around him? How can we be like him, trusting God and being so unafraid? 2. Do you still have a fear of death? Are you secure that nothing can separate you from the love of God? What would you do differently without that fear? RESPOND 1. Thank God for the salvation that is in Christ Jesus. Ask Him for the grace to live without fear. Remember that nothing can separate you from His love. 2. Live your life everyday knowing that you serve a holy God who has given you a holy life and a holy calling to make disciples.