But As For You

We are called to march to the beat of a different drummer.

Romans 12:2 (ESV) "Do not be conformed to this world"  We are not of this world and we are not to let it squeeze us into its mold.  The fight is relentless, strenuous, and continuous.  Who doesn't find themselves at times unwittingly driven by the moorings of our world's system.  It's pervasive and contagious.

And so we need someone to come along and say, "But as for you."  Paul does this for Timothy twice in  5 verses.

2 Timothy 3:10 (ESV) You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness,

2 Timothy 3:14 (ESV) But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it

I know they look different in English but they are the same words in Greek.  

Timothy had heard about all the things the world would be doing.  Paul warned him as to what was coming up next.  People will disregard everyone but self, that others will distort scripture to suit their own selfish ends.  Some will oppress the weak and use the word to do it.  

"But as for you."

Sometimes Christianity can just be summed up in one word: "continue".  You might not "feel" inspired.  You might not like what you're currently experiencing.  You might be in the dark, in a boat, in a storm like the disciples.  Just continue.  

Sometimes others will quit.  Sometimes others will give up and walk away and live seemingly very happy lives that make you wonder... And you need to just continue.  

In the first "But as for you" Paul lists his accomplishments... a seeming improper thing to do for a man of God... but note, he doesn't list them as that which made him great, he lists them as that for which he suffered!  And Timothy, you need to remember that suffering comes standard when the world is under the influence of the enemy.

In the second "But as for you" Paul reminds Timothy of his upbringing in the Word.  Verse 15 "and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."  Timothy, remember that there's nothing like the words of scripture.  They make you wise and they empower you.

I can attest to this.  There is something to the text of scripture, nothing else can do it... it changes lives, it brings people to a new reality.  It leads people in response to God.  It builds faith.  There is nothing like the Word of God.  As the Psalmist said, "I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation." Psalm 119:99 (ESV)

PRAYER:

Father, when I am discouraged, lead me to Your Word.  Help me to see it in the empowerment of the Spirit and the enlightenment He alone can give.  I ask for newness of sight into the depth and design of your Word.  I ask you for this, In Jesus' Name.