A Letter From Dad

(View Daily Bread)

2 Timothy 1:1-10 (NIV)
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,

2 To Timothy, my dear son:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Encouragement to Be Faithful

3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

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Today's message seemed to be a lesson for me which I can only apply when I'm a father myself. Though it's targeted at fathers, I found another way to apply it.

Love and affirmation does not necessarily point only to parents, giving to their children. As sons and daughters, we can also express our love and affirmation to our parents. This is so true especially in my family where I'm the only Christian. Even with friends, I can also give love and words of affirmation. Lord I pray that You’ll bless my heart and tongue.

Father You gave Your best, Your Son Jesus Christ, to the world to save all, including me. I give my best to You too Father, to bring the unsaved into Your loving arms through love and affirmation. I know You’re going to guide me through. Thank You Father.