Reading

• 2 Tim. 1:1-4:22

Devotional

It seems that Paul was once again arrested and had to stand trial, and was apparently sentenced to death as a result of his defense of the gospel. Secular history affirms that Paul died a martyr’s death (a martyr is someone who is killed for a cause—in this case, for his defense of the gospel of Jesus Christ), probably between 64 and 68 A.D. His final recorded letter, once again written while in chains, was to his “son” in the gospel, Timothy.

The letter of 2 Timothy is a reminder to hold fast to the truths Timothy had learned, to continue preaching and opposing false teaching, plus some personal instructions and historical record from Paul’s perspective.

Perhaps you have a good family home environment where your mom and dad are married and there is peace within your household. If so, thank GOD, for that is an increasingly-rare situation. A large percentage of children do not have such an environment at home. Many parents are single moms or dads and are striving to provide financially for their family, as well as provide for the children’s needs at home.

Timothy had a father who was a Greek—a Gentile who apparently was not a Christian. However, Timothy was blessed with a godly grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice. They taught Timothy the Scriptures from birth, and his faith grew strong. This teaching and home environment enabled Timothy to become a successful evangelist at a young age, which was a blessing to those he worked with, and to the kingdom of GOD. Paul reminded Timothy to continue following what he’d been taught from childhood.

¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, ¹⁵ and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. ¹⁶ All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ¹⁷ so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
(2 Tim. 3:14-17 NIV) 

To the parents reading this, continue to teach your children the holy Scriptures, because they can save your child’s soul. If you’re a single parent, you have my respect for the difficulty of your journey, and I know you can succeed, just like Lois and Eunice taught Timothy. If you’re a child reading this, imitate Timothy and learn as much as you can and ask GOD’s blessing of wisdom upon you as you grow. When you grow up, if you desire to marry someone, pursue a godly mate, for this will truly ease the difficulty of your journey.

Dads, learn from Timothy’s situation and don’t imitate the apparent mistake his dad must have made by not being the strong spiritual leader his family needed. Do not, under any circumstances, abandon your responsibilities as a father, to train your children and lead your family. Love them and lead them to the Father.

Moms, be a Eunice and purpose to teach your children from an early age, so they’ll know the gospel and be saved. You can do this, with GOD’s help.

And remember, be thankful for your family, for life without family is much more difficult and less enjoyable.