That "good thing"

In the Apostle Paul's second letter to Timothy, much time was given to encouraging thoughts that Timothy, "hold fast...that good thing committed...by the Holy Ghost."  2 Tim 1.13, 14

First, the Apostle reminded young Timothy of his heritage; "unfeigned faith...in(his) grandmother and (his) mother." 2 Tim 1.5

Second was the remembrance of "the gift of God,...in (him)." 2 Tim 1.6  The elder and the younger had probably discussed what Paul had seen in Timothy's life that would be his to use for the glory of God.  Maybe, he was articulate in expressing himself.  Maybe, people were naturally drawn to a good nature.  Whatever "the gift" was, you have one too and must do the same with it.

Thirdly, he was reminded that "God hath not given (him) a sprit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Tim 1.7  Wonder what Timothy was afraid or fearful of?  In our walk with the Lord Jesus, there are things in life that would make us fearful to stand for truth and right.   Yet, the apostle also admonished the young man not to "be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord..." 2 Tim 1.8  He was even given the reason to "hold fast."  The reason to stay true to one's testimony for the Lord Jesus is because He "saved us, and called us with a holy calling...according to HIS own purpose, and grace..." 2 Tim 1.9

Fourth, Timothy was further instructed by the older man as to why he could "go farther on."  The Apostle had experienced many things since his conversion and to this he told the young preacher, "I Know whom I have believed. and am persuaded that HE IS ABLE to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day." 2 Tim 1.12

Timothy was also instructed to:

• "hold fast...sound words"  2 Tim 1.13
• "endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."  2 Tim 2.3 (because it will come) 2 Tim 2.3
• Stay untangled "with the affairs of this life." 2 Tim 2.4
• Remember WHY you must endure:  for "the elects sake" - a testimony 2 Tim 2.10
• "Study..." 2 Tim 2.15
• Avoid "...babbling...that increases ungodliness." 2 Tim 2.16
• "Flee youthful lusts..." that will cause one to stumble 2 Tim 2.22
• AVOID "foolish and unlearned questions..."  2 Tim 2.23

Much time and effort was given to Young Timothy that he could go forward with confidence, grace and love for God's "elect people."

What "good thing" has the Lord gifted you?  Such an thing may be used for His honor and glory and peace in the believer's life when using the instructions above.  The guidance in these passages are for the laymen (or woman) as well as any young preacher man.

God bless and guide is the prayer of this blogger.  Ps 57.7