Tuesday, May 20, 2008

2 Timothy 1:12-14

"For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for 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.
Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us."
2 Timothy 1:12-14


Sometimes we suffer because of our religion and our faith in God.  Some people think that only the deluded and unintelligent are religious.  Others believe that our particular religion is led astray into a belief in something unchristian.  We're shunned by different groups or individuals for very different reasons, and sometimes it affects our jobs, our relationships, and our peace of mind.  We talked the other day about a scripture that urged us not to return evil for evil... so what can we do in those situations where we suffer because of our belief? ... I think this scripture tells us.  We might suffer, but just like 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, the suffering can't destroy us.  If we know our Father, and his Son, and trust them, then we won't be ashamed of what we believe.  He watches over our souls, and even our lives, as we commit ourselves to him.  The second and third verses tell us some things that will help.  Hold onto sound words.  Sound meaning not twisted or corrupted.  We don't need to argue silly, meaningless questions.  We need to remember our faith and the love we have for, and from, God.  He will explain even the biggest mysteries in time.  And we need to hold onto the precious knowledge and goodness that God has given us, by remaining close to the Holy Ghost, and allowing him to influence our lives and decisions.  No matter what we suffer, if we stay in communication with God, and strive to follow him, things will be okay.  We'll learn and grow more and more... despite *and* because of the challenges we suffer.

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