Paul reflects on the painful departure of Demas, who chose the present world over his faith, highlighting the dangers of being swayed by worldly power and the temptation to abandon Christ.

In his letters to Timothy, Paul seems to recognize his own imminent end, but also uses the term "last days" to refer to the period from Jesus' ascension to His future return, a time marked by moral decline and difficulty.

Paul emphasizes that the "good deposit" refers to the gospel of Jesus, which Timothy must protect against false teachings and misinterpretations that were prevalent in his time.

The church often emphasizes behavior over true submission to Jesus as Lord, leading to a narrow definition of what it means to be a Christian.

Paul highlights that true comfort comes from being "rooted and grounded in love," and that such a foundation requires intentional prayer and an understanding of the expansive love of Christ.

While some people thrive on constant change and innovation, others, including myself, find comfort in maintaining consistent daily routines, particularly when it comes to balancing personal and spiritual practices.

Consider the prayers of Paul and other prayers in Scripture; be bold enough to go deeper in prayer and see what God will do in your life and in the life of others.

Reading the first chapter of Colossians gives us a beautiful and powerful model of how to pray and what to pray for as we consider those in our lives and our co-mission of sharing the good news and the goodness of God everywhere we go.

While not meeting all apostleship criteria initially, Paul's encounter with Christ transformed him into a dedicated apostle, instrumental in spreading the gospel globally.

How many times have we wanted all the facts and knowledge on some topic before we were willing to step out in faith and do what God has asked?

What if the difficult things we go through and the suffering we experience have something to do with advancing the gospel? Would it stir more resolve and commitment to the places he has put us or to the people we are called to serve?

I memorized this passage when I was 18. I have sung it, quoted it, and prayed it hundreds of times over the decades. Yet I still often struggle with living it out.

Confused about what to wear? The apostle Paul adds some clarity for everyone seeking to walk in accord with Christ.

The apostle Paul seemed to know what many communication experts still teach: repetition matters. And at the end of 2 Corinthians, he repeats several themes important in his earlier instruction.

Even to a guy like me, holding on to middle age for dear life, exercise is important. But God gives us a different perspective on what it takes to be spiritually strong.

As I read the first chapter of 2 Corinthians, I am struck with how the apostle Paul managed a relationship with his brothers and sisters in Corinth in a season of tension and strained relationships.

Paul did not seek to be an insider or power player. He did not seek fame or fortune. As he wrote to the church in Corinth, he clarified the difference between wisdom that comes from God and wisdom that comes from the world.