S – But as for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

 2 Timothy 4:5 ESV

O – Commentary:

Again Paul used the strong contrast But you … (cf. 3:10, 14). Timothy must remain cool-headed in the face of difficulties. He must be ready to endure hardship (cf. 2:3) as the pressure mounted. He must do the work of an evangelist, proclaiming the gospel at every opportunity. (There is no reason to assume, as some suggest, that Timothy was without the gift of evangelism). In every way, Paul wrote, fulfill your ministry (diakonian, the word for voluntary “service” from which comes “deacon.”

 A. Duane Litfin, “2 Timothy,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 758.

A – We should be vigilant with our relationship and calling with God.  Whether a pastor or lay person, our relationship with God will be tested and there will be challenges.  It is easy to fall into sin, temptation, or habits that keep us from walking in God’s purpose.  God will give us insights on how to navigate those things that will keep us distant from Him.

R- Heavenly Father, you give discernment and insight.  Thank you for allowing us to clearly see the things in our lives that keep us from you.  We want to move towards you, not away.  Give us strength and resolve to follow you with all our body, soul and mind today.