To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Timothy 1:2 NIV
The apostle Paul opens the first chapter of 2 Timothy with a greeting to Timothy (see verses above). He goes on to tell Timothy, “I constantly remember you in my prayers” (2 Timothy 1:3 NIV) and reminds him to fan the flame of his gifts.
In today’s reading, Paul closes 2 Timothy with a benediction that echoes his original greeting, writing, “The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all” (4:22 NIV).
Often a pastor will close his sermon with a benediction, a prayer of blessing. When you hear a blessing, are you encouraged? Do you trust the words being spoken over you? Do you receive them?
As you read the Bible, consider reading it out loud. As you do, hold out your hands with your palms up. Let this be an expression of your faith; an act of trusting God by accepting the good words written for you to read and receive.
Next time you’re at church, and the service closes with a benediction, take a step of faith. Hold out your hands open, facing up, as an expression of trusting that the words spoken are a blessing for you to receive.
Father, I acknowledge that Your Word is alive and active. I trust that Your words are a blessing to me.
Recommended Resource:
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Today’s reading was adapted from Daily Wisdom for Women: 2019 Devotional Collection with permission from Barbour Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading was written by an anonymous author.