I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:1-8 NLT
Paul was about to die, and he was leaving a legacy. He knew there was no success without a successor. He told Timothy to train others who could train others in the Word of God (2:2). He invested in Timothy and modeled the way of genuine faith: be willing to suffer, preach the Word of God, and do the work of an evangelist. This is a life dedicated to Jesus, rooted in Him, loving others, and growing the Kingdom of God. This is a life well lived in Jesus – fight the good fight and finish the race to win the crown of righteousness (vv.7-8).
Truth must be spoken and not be silenced. This means that you need to speak up even if you will be rejected. Some people will run from the truth because it convicts them of what they are doing wrong in their lives. Yet others will gravitate to truth and respond to it. God’s Word is truth, and Jesus is the full revelation of God’s truth. Make a commitment today to share God’s truth. Don’t be rude but share in gentle, wise ways. Share boldly. You can speak on a stage or with a single person. Let go of the fear of rejection. God has accepted you, so you don’t need the acceptance of anyone else.
How can you live and leave a legacy of faith? Where do you need to speak up and share God’s truth?
