Like military veterans, Paul had a history of standing the ground for what is right. From that perspective, he tells Timothy that he soon expects to be martyred. It was the time of Nero’s reign. It was a time in our text when he looked back at his life and draws a conclusion for all his efforts for Christ. Throughout this small book, Paul praises those who have been supportive of him while recognizing those who have abandoned him.
This second letter to Timothy is very personal. A reminder to Timothy is like what we should also hear. He said we are saved according to God’s purpose and grace through Christ Jesus. He said, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.” (1:12)
Look now at the advice of this elder statesman. Writing to Timothy, he is also writing to us for how we may serve the Lord. He says to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. He said to endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. As a spiritual veteran, he is all of that because, “no man that wars entangles himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who has chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strives for masteries, yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully.” (2: 4,5)
When I was in Air War College as part of my Air Force service, it was obvious to all of us who wanted to be dedicated faithfully that we, “study to show ourselves approved…[ unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”] (2:15) As we honor our national veterans, let us do so as spiritual soldiers serving in an honorable capacity. We are wise to be the kind a veteran for Christ doing so with honor, being sanctified, and fit for the Lord’s use. (2:21)
Hopefully, all who read this blog do consider themselves soldiers of the cross. As God’s soldiers, we must be conscious of the fact that, “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12) Some people may not want to admit it, but because of Satan and the fallen nature of mankind, we live in a mean, evil, selfish, rude, angry, and hateful world.
God has given us the opportunity to serve him. The manner in which we serve him will determine our eternal rewards. The believer in Christ must acknowledge that the struggle is real. The battle is serious against evil. The dangers are constantly laying wait for us. Some people will find themselves in heaven with minimal rewards because of their lack of commitment in this battle. Other people, like Paul, will be able to say they have fought the good fight, they have finished their course, they have kept the faith. We are not alone in this battle. The Holy Spirit is always there to comfort and guide us. Christ will stand beside us against the enemy.
