To endure suffering for the gospel requires us to be strong so that we can be faithful and courageous. This strength is not rooted in human willpower or earthly resolve. Paul knew this well. He encouraged Timothy to be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus. Being strong in the grace of Jesus would enable Timothy to raise Bible teachers (2) and be a good spiritual soldier pleasing Jesus, the commanding officer (3). Being strong in the grace of Jesus would help him to be a spiritual victor and a hardworking spiritual farmer in planting gospel faith (5-6).

How can we be strong in the grace of Jesus? We must remember Jesus Christ, who suffered on the cross, died, and was resurrected, to save us eternally from our sins. By Jesus’ grace, we have eternal glory and eternal life (10-11). By Jesus’ grace, if we endure, one day we shall reign with him (12). Even when we falter, Jesus remains forever faithful and helps us in our time of need. He will not disown himself. This, too, is Jesus’ grace to us. When we are strong in the one-sided grace of Jesus, we have strength to teach the Bible, make disciples, suffer for the gospel, and endure everything so that others may also obtain eternal blessings in Christ.
Application: Father, thank you for our Lord Jesus, in whom we have endless grace and eternal life. Help me to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus so that I may be faithful to you.
One Word: Remember what Jesus did for you