~ Singleness of Purpose – Strenuous
Training – Steady Labor ~
Have you
heard about the kamikaze pilot who flew 50 missions—he was involved, but not
committed! Unfortunately many of us live our Christian lives without real
commitment. The second chapter of Timothy provides some word pictures for us regarding
the rigors of Christian life.
The Dedication of a Soldier
~ The Christian life requires the
singleness of purpose of a soldier in
wartime. We should not to be distracted by other things. “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in
Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses,
commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You
therefore must endure hardship as a good
soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs
of this life, that he may please Him who enlisted him as a soldier…” (verses 1-4).
The Discipline of an Athlete
~ The Christian life requires the
strenuous training of a disciplined
athlete preparing for the most important even of their career. An athlete who
plays by all the rules while competing comprehensive training. “…And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned
unless he competes according to the rules…” (verse 5).
The Determination of a Famer
~ The Christian life also
requires the steady conscientious regular
hard labor of a farmer. We must never take our eyes off the coming harvest
and the joy it will provide. “The hardworking farmer
must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things” (verses
6-7).
~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW
