2 Timothy 3:10-16

I draw comfort from the fact the fascinating and moving stories in the Bible are based on fact.  They actually happened, not some figment of a writer's imagination.  When reading some of the stories from the Old Testament I become engrossed in the history lesson I am receiving; I am enthralled by the romance and action playing out before me.  I am entranced by the way life is portrayed, real and at times raw.  It is said fact is stranger than fiction.

Paul is encouraging Timothy by reminding him that he knows everything Paul endured for the sake of the Gospel and that God was faithful.  Paul's words also inform his protégé Christians will suffer for the sake of Jesus. "Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you." (John 15:20)  Timothy was one of the first second generation Christians, his mother and grandmother taught him the scriptures when he was a child.

"There's nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." (2Timothy 3:16)

To Grow up Strong in God's Word is the goal and one we can chase after from now until God calls us home. Every time we put our noses into our Bibles, God shows up and teaches something new. It never fails.

Read the 2 Timothy 3:10-16 text here.