Bible Text

2 Timothy 4:16-22

16 At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! 17 But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

19 Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus. 21 Do your best to come before winter. Eubulus sends greetings to you, as do Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brothers.

22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you

Reflection & Application

• What enabled Apostle Paul to not hold a grudge against “all [who] deserted [him]”?

• How is it that Apostle Paul can break out into praise despite his difficult circumstances, such as imprisonment and loneliness, to name a few?

• What are the difficulties I am facing, and what are the truths I can remember, that will lead me to give thanks and glory to God in every circumstance? (cf. 1 Thess. 5:16-18)