Our Calling and Confidence

In his final letter, written from a Roman prison and facing certain death, the Apostle Paul lays before Timothy—and before us—the things that endure. These are the things “of God,” the unshakable realities that define the believer’s life and ministry. As the world grows darker and the trials fiercer, it is all the more vital that we anchor ourselves in these truths.

First, Paul speaks of “the will of God” (2 Timothy 1:1, BSB). He identifies himself as an apostle “by the will of God.” His calling was not self-appointed nor man-appointed—it was God’s doing. How strengthening it is to remember that our place in Christ, our service for Him, and our destiny with Him all rest in the sovereign will of God. What He purposes, He performs.

Next, Paul reminds Timothy of “the gift of God” (1:6). “Fan into flame the gift of God that is in you,” he urges. Gifts are from God; they are not earned or achieved. But they must be stirred up, nurtured, and used. Every believer is entrusted with gifts for the building up of the body of Christ. Dormant gifts dishonor the Giver. We are called to exercise them boldly, trusting in His provision.

Third, he points to “the power of God” (1:8). We are not saved to a life of fear or timidity, but to one of strength. Paul exhorts Timothy, “Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord… but join me in suffering for the gospel by the power of God.” It is God’s power that sustains us in witness and in suffering. It is not by our endurance that we persevere, but by His might working in us.

Then Paul brings us to “the Word of God” (2:9). Even though Paul is bound, he exclaims, “the word of God is not bound!” Chains may restrict the messenger, but they cannot hinder the message. God’s Word is alive, active, and unstoppable. It has run through empires, prison cells, and hostile cultures—unchained and victorious.

We also encounter “the foundation of God” (2:19). “Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands firm, sealed with this inscription: ‘The Lord knows those who are His.’” In a world of shifting sands, the believer rests on a sure foundation. God’s truth remains unshaken. His people are known and sealed by Him. Though heresies arise and persecutions rage, the foundation remains immovable.

Paul also describes those who are “lovers of God” (3:4). In contrast to those who are “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,” the true believer’s heart is captivated by Him. Love for God is the hallmark of real faith. It is not cold duty that drives the Christian forward, but holy affection, a love kindled by the Spirit Himself.

Seventh, we are reminded of “the inspiration of God” (3:16). “All Scripture is God-breathed…” The Word of God is not a human invention but the very breath of God captured in human language. It teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains us in righteousness. To neglect Scripture is to silence God’s voice in our daily walk.

Lastly, Paul sets before us the goal: “the man of God” (3:17). The Word is given “so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.” This is not a title of special status but a description of all who belong to Christ. Every believer, shaped by Scripture, strengthened by grace, and surrendered to God’s purposes, is called to be a man or woman of God—mature, prepared, and faithful.

How do these things “of God” resonate with your soul today? Are you resting in His will, using His gifts, relying on His power, cherishing His Word, standing firm on His foundation, loving Him supremely, listening to His breathed-out Scriptures, and growing as His own?

To continue your meditation, reflect on:

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.”

1 Peter 1:23 – “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”