2 Timothy 3:10-17; Psalm 118:10-21

2 Timothy 3:10-17
Yesterday we saw evidences and warning about the perilous times in the last days. In today's passage, we see Paul's encouragement and advice to Timothy and to us as we see these dangerous times all around us.

• Follow the right examples. Timothy was right to follow Paul because Paul taught the truth and he practiced what he preached. Though he endured suffering and persecution, he kept a good testimony for his faith, patience, love, and endurance. Impostors will deceive others and even themselves, and so we must be sure to follow godly examples. vv. 10-13
• Trust the teaching of the Bible. "But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are ture, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood,..." vv. 14-15
• The Scriptures give us "wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus." v. 15
• "All Scripture is inspired by God and useful to teach us in what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives." v.16
• "It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." v. 16
• "God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work." v. 17

What important advice! I cannot over-emphasize the importance of God's Word. Read it; study it; meditate on it; apply it; obey it! It will not let us down!

Psalm 118:10-21
"The Lord is my strength and my song..."
We have no lasting strength of our own. Circumstances may help us to feel strong for a time, but in reality, we are no match for the challenges of this world. The Lord must be our strength, and He must be our song. Think of the depression that so many people feel. When we feel vulnerable to sadness and depression or even anxiety and fear, we must claim the Lord as our song.

• He gives us victory. v. 14
• He does glorious things! v. 15, 16

God will do His part. He will give the victory in this life and He will keep His promise of eternal life. As we come daily into God's presence through His Word and prayer, we must be careful to give praise and thanks to Him. vv. 19-21