INVOLVED. 2nd Timothy 1:9 The participants in the work of the Gospel are not powerless because they personally know the scriptures and the power of God [Mat.22:29]; they have seen evidence of God's power [Lu.9:43]; they understand for themselves that the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation [Ro.1:16]; they have experienced God's life-changing power [1Co.6:7]; they share the good news not in human wisdom but in God's power [1Co.2:5]; they continually experience the impact of the Gospel through the word of truth, God's power, and the armor of righteousness [2Co.6:7]; they see in life’s situations that they are kept by God's power [1Pe.1:5].
Salvation is by grace alone, independent of any efforts people might make to be accepted by God. God’s plan to save lost sinners was established before He created the world. It is impossible for us to earn salvation because God’s grace is neither earned nor deserved. It is given because of His holy character, and His love is displayed through His mercy and grace toward us.
The holiness of life during times of stress, rejection, and persecution powerfully testifies to God's saving grace. A life of holiness can't be dismissed, even if it involves suffering. Holiness is the result, not the foundation, of God's choice to save those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Holiness is given to believers because of the holiness of Christ, who died for our sins as our personal substitute.
I see obstacles and complications to preaching the Gospel everywhere. Not only here, where I live, but all across the world, people are making choices, demanding what they want, and believing they have the right to it. They even think God should give them what they want without delay. As a citizen-intercessor, I appeal for this great nation: “If possible, would You give us, O God, another divine visitation? I know we can't be trusted; we're all full of self-interest, but please, if it is Thy will, hold back final condemnation.”
We often share the Gospel in public meetings and personal conversations, aiming to bring people to the Lord. Most people we meet don't care and won't pay attention to God’s Word. I know from personal experience that the Bible is a two-edged sword that speaks to and challenges me. I also understand that God’s voice can be heard in many unusual ways. I realize I am getting older, and most people might think what I have to say is irrelevant, but I still have experiences I can share. I want to be willing and ready to let others see that I truly care for them and their eternal well-being. Even though I am weakened by age and timid in spirit, I pray for this nation. Help us remember the responsibilities we carry because of the privileges given to us over many generations.
I need to stay active and avoid taking it easy. I want to feel the sweat from sincere labor all over my body. I desire to experience the sting of tears formed from intercession for the salvation of the lost in my eyes. I long to develop thick calluses from hard work in the Lord's field. I deeply wish to work in the part of the field where the seed grows and bears fruit. I don’t want to waste time along the roadside, among thorns, or on rocks. Feeling the good, turned-over earth under my feet is such a blessing; it's both warm and cool. Even though I can’t see it, I know that the life principle is active in that part of the field. I want to be soaked by both the early and late rain, and warmed by the life-giving sun. Getting dirt on my hands isn’t a problem because God provides an abundant supply of cleansing through the water of His word. I'm ready and willing to work. I only wish I were able to.