Today we read 2 Timothy 2. Paul reminds Timothy that he and his fellow pastors must remain focused on their task of proclaiming God’s Word. They must not get bogged down in quarrels or give in to the temptations of the flesh (such as temper), but be generous and kind to all. When we keep a tight rein on our tongues, not allowing ourselves to quarrel or to fall into petty arguments, we also avoid dishonoring Christ’s name with our selfish words. When God’s Word is front and center in our minds and on our tongues, it acts powerfully to create ongoing repentance and faith. By giving His gift of repentance to us through His Word, our Lord Jesus Christ snatches us from “the snare of the devil.” • Guard my tongue, O Lord, that it may be an instrument of Your praise. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10517). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we begin a new book of the New Testament–2 Timothy. This is another letter of the Apostle Paul that Paul writes to the young pastor Timothy–from prison!-having been incarcerated for preaching Jesus Christ. *** Alone in prison and abandoned by many of his friends, Paul fondly remembers the encouragement he received from Timothy’s sincere faith. Exhorting Timothy never to be ashamed of the faith he has been given, Paul exults in the promise of Christ, for whose sake he is imprisoned. Instead of feeling self-conscious about being Christian, we must share in Paul’s forthright confession: “I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed” (v 12). Our Lord Jesus Christ shall never let us go. • Thank You, Lord Jesus, that You never leave me or forsake me. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10513). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Timothy 6. As a true man of God, young pastor Timothy is to flee every corrupting influence and keep God’s command, faithfully guarding that which has been deposited with him. False “knowledge” not only contradicts God’s revealed truth, but it also places human reason above the deposit of good news God has entrusted to us, ultimately destroying our faith. In His testimony before Pontius Pilate, Jesus confessed that He was the Son of God. Although His enemies used that true testimony to convict Him before Pilate, His crucifixion and resurrection secured the treasures of life and salvation for all who believe. • Lord God, guard and keep us, we pray, so that the devil, the world, and our sinful nature may not deceive us or mislead us into false belief, despair, and other great shame and vice. Although we are attacked by these things, we pray that we may finally overcome them and win the victory. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10483). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Timothy 5. When Christians interact with one another in ways that are honorable and pure, they beautifully reflect God and the faith they confess. But the Church is burdened and liable to be reviled by unbelievers when honor and purity are lacking. Our dear Lord Jesus has made every Christian worthy of eternal honor by His sacrificial death and resurrection. Through faith in Him, even dishonorable sinners are regarded as God’s pure and beloved children. • Lord Jesus, turn us from our self-indulgent ways, that we may selflessly give honor and care to those whom You have given us to love and cherish. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10479). (Function). Kindle Edition.