2 Timothy 4:1-8; Psalm 118:22-29

2 Timothy 4:1-8
Paul urged Timothy to preach the word of God. Because he and others like him did just that, we have heard the Gospel even to this day. And it's still important for us to continue. As we have opportunity, we should be prepared to share the Good News about Jesus, to "patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage others with good biblical teaching." v. 1-2  Along this same line, we are also the learners or the listeners that Paul is telling Timothy about. So we should listen to good teaching, to correction, to rebuke (though it's sometimes hard to hear!), and to encouragement. And then we should take these things to heart.

Looking at vv. 3-4, I'm afraid we've already reached the time when many people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. But this should not discourage us. Only God knows who will and who will not respond to His message, and so our job is to remain faithful and do what we can with the opportunities God gives us.

Paul was an old man when he wrote this letter to Timothy. He was able to honestly say, "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me--the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing." vv. 7-8

Psalm 118:22-29

v, 22-24 is a prophetic reference to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus. "The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the Lord's doing, and it is wonderful to see. This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

Here is a song proclaiming that Jesus is the cornerstone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d88K3YDlD9I

Jesus Himself referred to these verses (Matt 21:42; Mark 12:10-11; Luke 20:17). Though He was rejected by His own people, He is now the "cornerstone" or most important part of the church.

v. 24 is a good one to keep in mind even on days when it's hard to rejoice and be glad.

And again we see in vv. 28 and 29 that we are to praise and exalt the Lord, and we are to be thankful. God is indeed good and "His faithful love endures forever."