"Be Strengthened" - How?
​I want us to go back to the context of yesterday’s blog where I described the five generations that Paul had in mind which would pass through His son Timothy to others. Our focus in this blog will be on 2 Timothy 2:1; “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”
Why is this command so important? To be entrusted as faithful men (2:2) with God’s truth, we need grace to strengthen us. The responsibilities of faithful men require energy and commitment you would find in a soldier, athlete or farmer (verses 3-6). This is referring mainly to soul strength because the work of the Lord is done by supernatural power that comes from the Lord Jesus.
After months of hard work and heavy opposition, Nehemiah encouraged the people by saying, “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (8:10). It came to them because of their faithfulness to the Lord and continuing to work, knowing that He was supplying everything they needed in the face of difficulty.
Some of you who read this are weary and tired in the Lord’s work. STOP! Take this moment to be alone with the Lord and let Him strengthen you by HIS grace. It is the undeserved supply of what we need to persevere with the goal before us – HIS GLORY! When you take this time to renew your mind by His grace, you will be able to return to the responsibilities of ministry with the joy of the Lord in your heart. Your focus is no longer on yourself, but on the Lord and what He wants.