THE PROMISE OF LIFE. 2nd Timothy 1:1 The promise of life contrasts sharply with the harsh reality Paul faced as he wrote this final letter. It seemed there was no longer any hope of acquittal, despite earlier expectations. He was not in his own “rented house” during this imprisonment and found the cell cold, so he asked Timothy to bring “the cloak” he had left along with the “books” and “parchments.” He was “in chains” like a common criminal, and his location was difficult to locate.
The apostle Paul was available to the Lord, eager and willing to live his life to the fullest. He wanted to fulfill the purpose of the One who is so supreme, so lofty, yet so near that He can be seen by faith’s eyes everywhere. Our Lord has a plan that is both unknown and known, defined yet open to interpretation. He has promised abundant life that can never be doubted—a life to the fullest—now and forever: What more could one want? That is THE PROMISE OF LIFE!
Paul’s message to Timothy was clear: You are simple clay with the pulse of life within, giving movement and ability beyond understanding; simple instruction: “You are a chosen vessel … bear My name… turn them from darkness to light” - easily understood. This is your simple message: “Forgiveness of sins … inheritance … sanctified by faith” – from the One who is the Savior; simple faith to act on what Jesus Christ told him that you might be blessed and be a blessing to others: What more could one do? That, too, is THE PROMISE OF LIFE!
For all of us who love our Lord Jesus Christ, the will of God grants authority to actions that many may misunderstand. The will of God clarifies any questions or doubts that might arise later. It provides the boundaries for the work to be done—stay within the guidelines. The will of God emphasizes the urgency of the work at hand, for He has committed Himself to me. What more could anyone ask for? For us, that is THE PROMISE OF LIFE!
The promise of life is eternal in its nature and duration, and divine in its Source. It gives meaning to each day and leaves aside all claims on our attention. The promise of life is a reassurance that endures when everything around us fails or changes. It is above and beyond normal life because it is life in the heavens. What more could there be? Then, THE PROMISE OF LIFE!
When we know our life will soon be over, that is a good time to review “all the way by which He led me.” We may find ourselves lonely and wanting to see some believers with whom we can share “The common faith.” We will look back over what we have done with our lives that have had some positive, lasting effects on others. The welfare of the Lord’s people and the assemblies we have been a part of are strong in our minds and hearts as we wonder how they are doing and want to be with them. The best we can do is pray for them, write some letters, and hope what we write will be read.
We sincerely care about young believers and can only pray for their spiritual preservation and growth. We greatly desire to know if they are “keeping the faith,” “preaching the word,” “not forsaking the assembling of themselves together,” and seeking to “glorify God in their bodies and spirits.” How wonderful it is when we see younger believers acting on our Lord's commission by “going,” “preaching,” “baptizing,” and “teaching” as Jesus Christ commanded.
Opposition from within ourselves and from outside will constantly challenge those who are obedient to the Lord. As older individuals, we strive to support, encourage, challenge, and pass on what we know with grace and wisdom. We must recognize our limitations, but we also need to remain “found faithful” as stewards of God's grace.
Being called to serve You by Your will, O God, is a noble honor. Recognizing that this calling surpasses all other demands on my life because it comes from You adds significance to my actions, even when they seem small. I pray for understanding to truly grasp the value of the promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus. I never want to underestimate what has been entrusted to my hands and heart. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.