The Comfort of a Soldier of God: Part 7

As we continue through the book of 2 Timothy we noticed a transition from characteristics of that soldier of God towards the trials and cautions for a soldier of God. In our first three studies we noticed these characteristics (Strong, Singled-Minded, Strict, Secure, and Sound of Faith). In the 4th and 5th study we learned one of the cautions of a Soldier of God is the "false believer" we also learned how God protects us from this. Last week we learned about the charge to a Soldier of God. To learn more about these click here. This week we look at God's "Comfort for the Solder of God."

Let's begin with scripture from 2 Timothy 4:6-18

6For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close. 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8There is reserved for me in the future the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved His appearing. 9Make every effort to come to me soon, 10for Demas has deserted me, because he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. 12I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. 14Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. 15Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words. 16At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the proclamation might be fully made through me and all the Gentiles might hear. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. To Him be the glory forever and ever! Amen. - 2 Timothy 4:6-18

In this final bit of scripture from Paul we find 3 major comforts that come from God:

I. A Good Finish to Life (v6-7)

Sure God isn't promising any details about our death. What is promised is that when we die we will die with hope. Hope and faith that we will be in heaven with our Father, God. When we leave this life as believers it's not a sad thing, it's honestly probably the best thing that'll ever happen to us. Sure it sounds negative now, but think about it. Believers live their lives for Christ and face the troubles of the world. When we die, we no longer have to worry about the pains of this world. All we have to do with fellowship and worship God. 

II. A Good Future After Life (v8)

As a believer we shouldn't fear death, but embrace it. I'm not saying we should always wish to die and make foolish dangerous decisions to shorten our lives. Instead, we should protect our bodies and know that our death is all in God's hands. He will bring us home when HE is ready. Therefore there's no need to fear. Our future in heaven will be far more beautiful and perfect than we can even begin to imagine.

III. Good Friends in Life (v9-18)

Something that gets me through each day are my friends. If it weren't for friends life would be beyond depressing for most of us. Having Christian friends that you can rely on to help you spiritually are the best. When I stumble, when I doubt, when I'm lost and need direction I know my friends will be there to help guide me in God's Will. They pray for me, pray with me, and often confirm God's Will in my life. I strongly suggest that you surround yourself with Christian friends. They will support you and encourage you in your walk with Christ.

Again I encourage you to look over these scriptures again. 2 Timothy outlines the life of a minister but also serves as a guideline for all believers to live by. Paul understands that we can't live up to these standards all the time, but gives us these to push us and drive us to do better each day. In following this, you should notice a stronger relationship with God and become closer each day.

I purpose a challenge. Take the next 7 days, 1 week, to review these 7 lessons over Timothy. Try to live by these. Push yourself over the next 7 days to try to model your life after Paul's outline. I guarantee in just 7 days you'll begin to notice a change in your relationship with Christ. See how this works for you. Then I encourage you to keep this as a life goal.

Grounded in Christ,

Bro. Austin