Perilous times
You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Life is not easy. Sometimes it is a real struggle but we are called to endure. It is Christ who gives us strength to finish the race even in perilous times. This was what Paul was describing to Timothy. From the text, Paul described for Timothy the downward slide of society and mankind which will proceed with deteriorating effects during the last days. Establishing what used to be the moral center of men and women would be difficult for it spins out of control. From this image comes a directive. Believers must reject all false teachers and to endure the difficult days in which they live. Scripture should stand as the foundation for truth. We must remain steadfast by submitting ourselves to transforming power of God’s word. Paul by providing this admonition from God, who desired that believers maintain a readiness of spirit and life, reminded each one that spiritual battle will rage. What each believer must decide is whether he or she will prepare for the promised difficulties or will prefer personal safety and comfort. People who made the decision to turn and accept God’s truth should choose to remain in God’s love. “He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them” (2 Corinthians 5:15). This is in contrast with the world; “For people will love only themselves and their money.” True spirituality that proceeds from right thinking is produced by God’s power within. It is the Spirit of God and His Word that transforms our outward behavior. True Christianity cannot be hidden. It is not a private religion without public effect. God’s strength is not reserved just for special occasion, it is supplied daily by God so we could endure, have the courage to choose God’s path, experience the ability to love and have a consistent commitment to live for His glory.
Blessings
