Posts Tagged ‘2 Timothy 2’

Every now and again it is awesome when God reminds us of some of His simple truths.

I took a trip on Friday with my lead pastor and the man who discipled me, to share the ministry of discipleship with a church in the Kenton Ohio area.  As we were traveling to our appointment, we had many good discussions.  One of the topics mentioned was the concept of giving away the things God has given to us.

Typically in this tangible world, as we give our things away, it leaves less for us.  However, when it comes to the good news of Christ, it is not like this at all.  The Bible tells us that God specifically gives us insight into His word and comforts us in our times of need so that we will share these things with others.  (2 Timothy 2:2, 2 Corinthians 1:1-4)  Are we sharing what we have been given?  Or are we like the selfish two year old; who, though he has no intention of playing with a certain toy, still refuses to share it with others?

As we give His love and truth away, it will spread just as He intended it to from the beginning.  Let’s give it away!

“Never underestimate the power of a rivalry”.  These were the words I heard as my heart pounded in my chest; the one win Cleveland Browns had just triumphed over their nemesis – the Pittsburgh Steelers.  I must say, it got me thinking.

What is a rival?  Websters defines a rival as:  “a person who is competing for the same object or goal as another, or who tries to equal or outdo another; competitor”.  Another definition describes a rival as:  “a person or thing that is in a position to dispute another’s preeminence or superiority”.  How do we define our rivals?  The Bible tells us plainly that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places”.  Do we underestimate the power of our rivalry?

It is so easy to become lulled to sleep in the comfort and complacency of modern convenience.  To become apathetic about the world that surrounds, yet never seems to touch, our isolated lives.  To daily begin the game without truly understanding the strength of our enemy.

I believe that it is time to wake up!  It is time to understand that we face a real foe; he is likened to a “roaring lion seeking whom he may devour”, and is our greatest rival.  He is competing to be the god of our lives and to have preeminence over this world.  We must never make the mistake of underestimating exactly how powerful, cleaver, and subtle he is.  We must live obedient lives with the discernment and wisdom that only comes from God, escaping the snares of our adversary the devil.  Then, and only then will we find victory in this life!

Passing the ball

I have the incredible privilege to serve as one of the coaches on my boys flag football team this fall.  Now for those of you who have never watched K – 1st graders play organized football, let me assure you it is a blast to “watch”!  However, coaching is sometimes a different story.

As in any aspect of life, managing others can often be more of a challenge than just performing the task yourself.  Therein lies the true test:  are we able to pass along what we have learned to those younger than ourselves?  If we fail this test, not only will the next generation suffer, but all of our wisdom and experience will die with us.  Perhaps this is the most important thing that God has given us to do – to pass His ball successfully to the next generation so that they can run with it!

These little guys are teaching me so many life lessons through the simple game of football.  I can’t wait to share them with all of you.