November 14, 2025 - 2 Timothy 4

The time is coming, Paul writes, when people will hate the truth and will follow after lies; thus, the necessity of continuing to “preach the word” and to “be ready in season and out of season” (4:2).  Several days ago, I wrote about friendship with Onesiphorus and Onesiphorus’ support and service.  True friends are so important to us.  At the end of this letter, Paul mentions Timothy, Luke, and Mark as true friends and ones to be relied upon even in the most dangerous situations.  In contrast, he writes about Alexander and others who opposed him and his ministry.  Paul describes his situation thusly:  “At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them!  But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me” (4:16-17).  God does give to us faithful brothers and sisters who will stand with us regardless of what the day brings.  At the same time, what joy and confidence is ours to know that the Lord himself stands by us and strengthens us!

When worn with sickness, often you

With health renewed my face,

And when in sins and sorrows sunk,

Revived my soul with grace.

Your bounteous hand with worldly bliss

Has made my cup run o’er,

And in a kind and faithful friend

Has doubled all my store.   --Joseph Addison (1712)