Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
December 10, 2022: SOAP #4755: 2Timothy 1-4

NOTE:  In looking for what God would have me write for today, I believe God wants me to repost a SOAP from 2019.

SCRIPTURE:  2Timothy (NIV) 4:16 [Past] At my first defense, no-one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them.
17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 [Future] The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

OBSERVATION:  In verses 16-17, Paul shares about his past.  He had to face charges alone — But the Lord was on his side and brought deliverance.  In verse 18, Paul jumps to the future — The Lord will rescue him and will bring him safely to the heavenly kingdom!

The only way I know to get from the past to the future is to go through the present.  What is happening in Paul’s present?  Chapter 1 verse 12 tells us that he is suffering.  Chapter 2 verses 8-9 tell us that he is in chains.  Earlier in chapter 4 we read that he is already being poured out and that his departure (death) is soon.

APPLICATION: Some people get so caught up feeling miserable and complaining about present troubles that they forget what God has done in the past and what He has promised for the future!   Like Paul, sometimes I need to forget about my present troubles, review what God has done for me in the past and remind myself of God’s future promises.  From past victories and future promises, I can gain strength to face today’s troubles.

PRAYER:   Heavenly Father, forgive me for wasting time worrying about my problems.  What you have done for me in the past assures me that you have my present in control. Your promises provide a glimpse of what my future holds as I walk with you.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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