2 Timothy 2:1-21 It was 1996, and Atlanta was hosting the summer Olympics. Runners carried the Olympic torch from the West Coast to Atlanta. Different runners were chosen for the major cities to run several miles with the torch, and then it was passed to the next runner. Our neighborhood was excited because the runners were going to pass the torch just a couple of blocks from our neighborhood. We all turned out en masse to see this meaningful event. It was thrilling to see one runner hand the torch to another.
Paul talks in this passage about passing the torch of the gospel to faithful men. He says, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (v. 2).
One of the joys we have as parents is now seeing our three sons serving the Lord and teaching others the truths of God’s Word. John also had this joy and writes, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 4).
As we pass the torch of the truth of God’s Word on to our spiritual and physical children, we must also pray they will walk in those truths. The impartation of truth is key in kingdom living, but walking in those truths is what pleases God most. We must walk our talk, not just talk the walk.
The moment the Olympic torch was passed from one runner to the next, the next runner began instantly to run with the torch. My prayer is today that whatever I have been able to teach others will inspire them not only to retain such truths, but to walk in these truths and live a life that glorifies our heavenly Father.
Lord, strengthen everyone I have shared Your truths with and help them to apply these truths and walk in these truths. Help them to run the race of life well and always glorify You in both word and deed.
READ: Jeremiah 42:1-44:23; 2 Timothy 2:1-21; Psalm 92:1-93:5; Proverbs 26:3-5
