II Timothy 1   This is Paul's last letter.. and he sends it to Timothy,  whom he calls "my beloved son".

Paul leaves Timothy with a "clear conscience" and a thankful heart.  He longs to see Timothy again, but if that does not happen, he wants to leave him with words to encourage and build him up in faith.

Paul reminds Timothy of the "sincere faith" of his grandmother and mother.. and that he also has in him.

Paul reminds Timothy that he was given a "gift of God", and that he needs to keep it kindled afresh... stir up the fire.. the King James version says.  Keep the fire.. the gift of God.. alive and burning!

Paul reminds Timothy that the Spirit of God is not a "spirit of timidity" or fear.  The Spirit given to us is one of "power and love and discipline... "  ( self-control).

"Therefore"  Paul reminds Timothy, " do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me..."
Suffering for the gospel is not something to be afraid of or ashamed of, instead.. it is "a holy calling".
It is part of God's "own purpose and grace.. which has been granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity."

Paul reminds Timothy that Jesus Christ "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel".. and it is for this reason he is suffering.. " but, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. " 

This strong and clear testimony from Paul, in prison, facing a death sentence.. reminds Timothy and us, that no matter what circumstances we face.. we can remain steadfast in faith, with peace in our hearts, knowing that God has us in His Hands and will fulfill His good and perfect will in us.

Two final reminders in this chapter... "Retain the standard of sound words.. in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus".  And, " Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. "   Both of these point to how vital it is that we base our lives on the Truth of God's Word.. which is the "sword of the Spirit".

By the power of the Holy Spirit who manifests Himself in us, we stand firmly and with clear consciences on the Truth of God's Word, in faith and in love, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Father in heaven, may we stir up the flame of faith and love in our own lives.. remembering that You are able to keep us and live in us, and use us for Your purposes.... until that day when we will finally be made whole in Christ Jesus our Lord. Have Your own way in us today I pray, in Jesus' name . amen.