In and Out of Season…

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“Preach the word, in and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with complete patience and teaching. The time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching…” 2 Timothy 4:2-3.

I spent the last few weeks reading through 1 & 2 Timothy. Again and again I was struck by how applicable these letters were for us today. I was struck by Paul’s descriptions to Timothy of the culture they were living in. I guess I was so struck because it sounded like he was talking about 2017.

We’ve definitely entered a season that seems like the one Paul described in 2 Timothy 3 & 4.

“People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” 2 Timothy 3:2-5 {Side note: this is not a judgement completely on the world outside of the church. I see as much of these things in the church — in me — as I do anywhere else. We must be on guard and pick up the sword of the spirit, church!}

Here is what I think Paul was saying to us…

Don’t neglect God’s Word, its the very breath of God.

Don’t quit what you’re doing just because the world is falling apart.

Be ready to speak truth and live out your calling – in season and out.

Yet also? Be patient. Keep teaching. The Word of God is applicable and useful for every season, every generation, every culture, every person.

Let’s put on the armor of God. The armor doesn’t make us mean, it makes us ready, it guards our hearts, it gives us peace in the storm.

God is our shield and we have enough in Him. We don’t have to defend ourselves, He is our defense.

Lord, remind me each and everyday of the importance of filling myself with Your Truth. May I never place more importance on the things of this world than the truth of Your Word. Help me to not fall apart though the world if falling apart. Yes, sadness and grief come with this world, but help me to stay fixed on You and Your Truth through it all. Give me words of Truth with love. Help me to be ready, in and out of season, to show others who You are. Give me Your patience as I walk out this journey of life. With You, I can suit up in my armor that You’ve given me, each and everyday. You are my defense. You’ve given me the breastplate of righteousness, the sword of the Spirit, the belt of Truth…I just need to pick it up and walk in it! Amen.