What Matters Most (The Book of 2 Timothy)Campione

REFLECT

If you’ve read the children’s book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, then you know how quickly circumstances pile up for each person in Alexander’s family. Whether it’s gum in the hair, sitting in the middle, losing a girlfriend, breaking a prized possession, or even blowing a job interview, everyone has had terrible days. Alexander realizes at the end that everyone experiences tough times. But one of the best things that can happen on a bad day? Knowing that you are not alone.

Writing from prison, most likely in chains, Paul mentions to Timothy what a bright light his dear friend, Onesiphorus, was to him during his prison days. This friend’s persistent concern and devotion brightens this letter as much as the friend brightened his difficult prison life. Paul wonderfully reminds us of the value of friendship and how powerful it is to recognize that we are not alone.

Curating strong Christian friendships requires time and effort. Be encouraged that taking small steps to grow your relationship with Jesus and others can reap great reward!

PRAY

Lord, help me be the friend to others that I want to have. Show me the way to be the mercy-giver, especially today. Amen.

CHAT

How can you best respond to difficult circumstances when they are first discovered? What is one simple way you could take a small step to be the friend you want to have?