For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. 2 Timothy 12:14
Recently, a few well-known men have discussed in the public forum their loss of faith in Christianity (among them are Rhett and Link, and author of I Kissed Dating Goodbye, Josh Harris… and a family member of mine as well). What’s going on? Well, each is its own story- and I have some theories. But, against all of that, if ever there was a person who could have said “I am done!, its not working for me!”, it would be the apostle Paul. But from his jail cell, he said the opposite. He declared to Timothy, I am not ashamed! I know in whom I have believed! To every Christian who is feeling ostracized, embarrassed or second class because of your faith in Jesus, remember that you are indwelt by the Holy Spirit of God and have a treasure beyond measure. Don’t be ashamed of Him.
Am I cry-babying too much about the difficulty of being a follower of Jesus Christ? How dependent am I upon the Holy Spirit as opposed to my own intellect, energy and emotions?
God, as this day begins, I feel a renewed sense of resiliency. What a whimp I am at times. Please forgive my half-hearted attitude and any complaining. Thank you for the reminder that You have given me treasure beyond measure.
