Prayer and Promises

The Promise

Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 

— 2 Timothy 2:1,15, NLT 

The Testimony

Paul tells Timothy that he is not to be a weakling, but strong in the grace of God; that it is his privilege to have power and grace. 

In the providence of God, we shall be associated with those who are inexperienced. The humblest child of God, who needs the most help, may at times try the patience of those who are connected with him. Be careful, my brother; be careful, my sister. “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” 

The Lord has need of men of an intense spiritual life. How are we prepared to work for time and for eternity? The Lord has declared the source of the strength of his people. “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” 

The word of God is to be presented as it is in Jesus. It is not enough to present the Bible as other books are presented. That it may be understood savingly, the Holy Spirit must work upon the heart of the receiver. The same Spirit that inspired the Word must inspire the readers of the Word. Then we shall hear the voice of heaven in all its harmony, and impressions will be made and an intelligent knowledge attained. “Thy word, O God, is truth,” will be the language of the soul. 

When a man breathes an intensely earnest prayer to God (Jesus Christ is the only name given under heaven whereby we can be saved), there is in that intensity and earnestness a pledge from God that he is about to answer that prayer exceeding abundantly, above all that we can ask or think. We must not only pray in the name of Jesus, but by the inspiration and kindling of the Holy Spirit. This explains what is meant when it is said, “the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which can not be uttered.” The petitions must be offered in earnest faith. Then they will reach the mercy-seat. Unwearyingly persist in prayer. God does not say, Pray once, and I will answer you. His word is pray, be instant in prayer, believing ye have the things ye ask, and ye shall receive them; I will answer you. 

— The Gospel Herald, May 28, 1902 

The Response 

My Father, I need your help and earnestly pray that I may be strong through the grace that is in Christ Jesus. It is not by my own might that I can be spiritual, but by Your Spirit. May the Holy Spirit inspire my heart with Your word that I may be Your worker, correctly teaching the word of truth.