Timothy felt like quitting his ministry at Ephesus partly because he had unrealistic expectations for the Christian life. He was surprised to be persecuted but should have expected it. In fact, he should have expected worsening persecutions because "evil men and charlatans will go from bad to worse, deceiving others, themselves deceived" (2 Tm 3:13).
However, Timothy should also have expected strength to remain faithful to what he had learned and believed (2 Tm 3:14). Having known the sacred Scriptures even from his infancy, Timothy had the power to endure anything and "be fully competent and equipped for every good work" (2 Tm 3:17).
Christians should have great expectations. They should expect great persecutions and great faith to endure persecution. Have a realistic view of the Christian life. Expect great evil and even greater grace (Rm 5:20).
| PRAYER: | Father, things are going to get a lot better and a lot worse. Thank You for the strength to claim Your victory. |
| PROMISE: | "The majority of the crowd heard this with delight." –Mk 12:37 |
| PRAISE: | St. Ephrem spent his energy organizing works of love to take care of those suffering from famine. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College