THE LORD STOOD WITH ME. 2Timothy 4:6-22 These final words from a man like the Apostle Paul were undoubtedly important to Timothy. The Holy Spirit has shared these same words with us today, so we can live and serve God bravely in these last days. Our Lord wants us to see that He supports His faithful servants, no matter what others decide to do. He expects us to stay committed to our calling and carry out our duties, even if others turn away from what faithful servants have taught them.
Paul was devoted to the Lord and was already being poured out [Ex.29; Lev.23:13; Num.15:10; 28:7,14; Phil.2:17]. His death was like a drink offering. He understood he had been faithful to his calling, which allowed him to face death with calmness at the end of his life. His hope was to see the Lord, a hope he shared with Timothy and all who maintain their faith and love in the Lord Jesus' appearance. When the time comes for final words to be spoken, they resemble the departure of a ship or pulling up the last stakes of a tent.
The Christian life is like that of a soldier who has been on the battlefield for a long time, fighting for what is right against what is wrong. Paul was a sacrifice himself for what brings glory and honor to God. That is a good fight. As an athlete, he began his course from the moment he asked, "Lord, what will Thou have for me to do?" Now that course has ended. A steward has been entrusted with a responsibility. A trustee is a representative of something of value. Paul was given "the faith," the body of truth to guard and pass on to Timothy and others. It is now in our hands and our responsibility. We are expected to protect the faith and pass it on to those who are "faithful men who shall be able to teach others also." Paul, the servant, was faithful to his Lord. For many, it's just a buzzword when the Gospel is preached often, and people get used to hearing it. For others, it's a rallying cry when God's voice is heard, urging us to respond as if it's a mission given to us. It first came from deep inside Paul, who felt the need to give a serious charge to Timothy, based on what he had learned - PREACH THE WORD!
This is not a call to religion or a vague suggestion from a distant voice urging you to do this if you can. This charge signifies much more than a weak attempt to speak; it demands a choice and calls for us to fulfill our obligation. Therefore, go and be faithful to your fellow man, and PREACH THE WORD! There may be times when it becomes difficult, and opposition will arise. Most people won't listen because they don't want to hear what you have to say. Those whom God has called are like runners striving to win a prize, like soldiers in battle, or like stewards serving diligently when the Master is not nearby - PREACH THE WORD!
Many with "itching ears" prefer messages that do not stir their consciences. Some are engaged in "the Lord's work" motivated by money. Others seek flattery from men, and the obligation to the truth never crosses their minds. But you, Timothy, I charge you to be prepared, to be bold, and to fear not men's condemnation - PREACH THE WORD!