What Matters Most (The Book of 2 Timothy)Prøve

REFLECT

The pained look on his face equaled sheer agony. At mile 20 on his first marathon, my husband slowed to a walk when he saw me. I wasn’t sure if he would make it for 6 more miles. We had walked 17 miles the day before, an unwise decision. “Are you ok?” I promptly asked. “This is tough. And I still have 6 to go,” he replied. “You’ve got it,” was all I could say. Neither of us said another word while I continued to walk the path with him a few more steps. Determination replaced his look of pain and he fell into stride again. “See you at the finish!” I wasn’t sure if he heard me, but he did indeed finish.

Paul’s wise one-liners in today’s verses are sharp and succinct. He reminds Timothy that you don’t get a medal if you don’t cross the finish line. You won’t receive a reward without diligence and hard work. Life comes at you fast; be sure to slow down and pray over your next move.

Dedication to continue that next step in your walk with the Lord will reap benefits you can’t imagine. Be strong through his strength today!

PRAY

Father, I praise you for the strength you’ve provided on life’s journey so far and I ask for a new portion for today. Help me to be persistent in my walk with you and help me know when to slow down. Amen.

CHAT

Where is the best place to turn when you feel like you can’t take another step? What cue would help you know when you truly need to slow down?