TRANSFORMATION THROUGH SUPPORT

Here Paul reminds Timothy that he stands on the shoulders of faithful Christians in the past. We should never underestimate the value of supportive people in our lives. Behind the heroes of history stand individuals who enabled those heroes to succeed.

Take Johan von Stopitz, the friend and adviser to Martin Luther. Von Stopitz introduced Luther to biblical studies, taught him the value of grace, and defended Luther when he was widely criticized. Luther credited von Stopitz with helping him to keep going through the most challenging times he faced.

In 1536 William Farrell challenged John Calvin to remain in Geneva. That decision directly affected the course of the Protestant Reformation and the spread of Reformed theology.

The apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to practice his God-given spiritual gifts. Like supportive people today, Paul focused on the positive dimensions of life, reminding Timothy that God has given us “a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.”

God calls us to recognize and thank those who have supported and encouraged us, and to reach out and encourage others. You never know what might become of a life that you touch with the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for people who have helped our faith grow. Give us the vision and gifts to enable others to come to faith and to flourish in their Christian life. Amen.

Dean Deppe