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So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 2 Timothy 1:8

Read: 2 Timothy 1:8-18
Listen: 2 Timothy 1

Paul admonishes Timothy repeatedly not to be ashamed of him or the gospel message. Timothy needs this encouragement because many situations could cause shame. People mock Christians because their God was executed on a Roman cross. Timothy’s mentor, Paul, sits in chains in a Roman jail, awaiting a trial for following Jesus. Being a Christian holds no advantages. Believers suffer, and they struggle to not become ashamed of their faith. Paul urges Timothy to stand firm and to avoid joining the number of the ashamed.

We need Paul’s encouragement to embrace being a follower of Jesus and not be ashamed of the gospel as it becomes less and less popular in our culture. We may be misunderstood or labeled “narrow-minded” for following Jesus. Some of us may be rejected at work for what we believe. Others may have friends walk away because of their faith. Whatever we encounter, the same God who gave Paul and Timothy strength to not be ashamed of him is with us, too.

TODAY: Pray for strength and grace to remain true to the gospel in situations that tempt you to be ashamed of Jesus. “God, I desire to follow you with your strength and perseverance. Help me stay true to the gospel of Jesus in this situation ________________. Amen.”

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Exodus 25. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider the articles for the Tabernacle and how these may point to Jesus.