Daily Encouragement

October 25 – The Last Words of Paul

October 25

TODAY’S BIBLE READING CHALLENGE:
Jeremiah 48:1-49:22
2 Timothy 4:1-22
Psalm 95:1-96:13
Proverbs 26:9-12

Jeremiah 48:1 — This chapter may seem to be irrelevant to 21st century Americans, but what if we swapped out Moab for America and the names of the cities for cities we knew. What if we read “Against America thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Woe unto New York! for it is spoiled: Chicago is confounded and taken: Dallas is confounded and dismayed.” We’d sit up and take notice! That’s what it felt like for the people this was written to because they trusted in their works and treasures. Good thing we don’t trust in our accomplishments and our money! Oh wait …

2 Timothy 4:1-2 — These are the last words of Paul. His urgent charge to his favorite son, Timothy. His message was simple, “Preach the Word!” From West Coast Baptist College, a song based on this text:

2 Timothy 4:7 — This verse is carved on the tombstone of Billy Sunday:

Author’s Photograph

2 Timothy 4:9 — Here we read some of the most touching words in the Bible. Paul, who sent Christians to their death, is being sent to his death for being a Christian. He’s lonely and begging Timothy to come to him. Demas, his friend and co-laborer, (Colossians 4:14, Philemon 1:24) has abandoned him and left the faith (2 Timothy 4:10). Titus is in the faith, but on assignment.

2 Timothy 4:11 — Mark, who disappointed Paul by abandoning him (Acts 15:38), who caused the split between Paul and his mentor Barnabas (Acts 15:39), is now reunited with Paul in spirit.

2 Timothy 4:13 — Paul is in physical distress, or he wouldn’t ask for a coat (2 Timothy 4:21). But more importantly, he wants his books and parchments. He was nigh unto death but was still reading and learning.

2 Timothy 4:7 — From Earl Martin:

2 Timothy 4:16-17 — Paul has given up all grudges and has his faith and hope fully in the LORD.

Psalm 95:1 — Enjoy this song from Northland Baptist Bible College based on this psalm:

Psalm 96:5 — Why is the LORD of the Bible greater than the god of any other religion. Because He is the Creator of all. That’s why the battle for Genesis is so important!

Proverbs 26:11 — Solomon is disgusted by the fool. Pray that your children don’t grow up to be fools.

Share how reading through the Bible has been a blessing to you! E-mail us at 2018bible@vcyamerica.org or call and leave a message at 414-885-5370.

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