Preach the Word with endurance – to the end of the race.
Preach the Word, even when it is unpopular. We need to tell people the truth, even when they don’t like it. We need to be like Jeremiah, who prophesied that the Babylonians were coming to conquer Judah. The Jews called him a liar and threw him in the dungeon. He stood firm for the truth from God. We need to be as faithful to the Word as John the Baptist was when he told Herod that adultery was wrong. Read Matthew 14:1-12. Preach the Word like Paul did in Lystra when he was called a greek god. Preach the Word like Jesus. He spoke the truth from the beginning of His ministry to the end with Pilot. We need to let the Holy Spirit lead us into the balance of wisdom, boldness, and love, which will help us speak the truth in love, with tears. Read Ephesians 3:14-19; Acts 20:19, 31; Philippians 3:18.
There is a time if we are not already there when people do not put up with the truth. They will like the teachings that match their desires and behavior. How do you view our society and culture today? People will turn away from the truth to listen to the false teachings.
The Bible is the leading book we should be using in our devotions. His Word is a lamp unto our feet and light unto our path—Psalm 119:105. His Word helps us not to sin. God’s Word enables us to know what He is like and Who He is.
Finish the race well; we need to guard our attitude when others hurt us. Paul’s final days, he faced some of the greatest discouragement in his life. His closest friends wouldn’t come forward to testify for him. Enemies lied about his ministry. Some of his hopes and dreams didn’t come true. Yet through all the hurt and disappointments, Paul stood tall and rejoiced. How could he do this when his life was miserable? Paul had God!! He left vengeance on God when sinners hurt him. He forgave those who failed him in the most excellent hour of need. He didn’t let unmet expectations blur his vision for ministry. He didn’t let disappointments in relationships shake your confidence in God.
We can learn how to be Christ-like from Paul.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I pray that we will be like Jeremiah, Paul, and Jesus. I pray that we will abide in you and be obediant.
In Jesus Name
Amen
