Trust without Shame

The Gift of Faith
Restorative Faith
A Reversal of Shame

2 Timothy 1:8-14  The Message

^8-10 So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner. Take your share of suffering for the Message along with the rest of us. We can only keep on going, after all, by the power of God, who first saved us and then called us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it. But we know it now. Since the appearance of our Savior, nothing could be plainer: death defeated, life vindicated in a steady blaze of light, all through the work of Jesus.
^11-12 This is the Message I’ve been set apart to proclaim as preacher, emissary, and teacher. It’s also the cause of all this trouble I’m in. But I have no regrets. I couldn’t be more sure of my ground—the One I’ve trusted in can take care of what he’s trusted me to do right to the end.
^13-14 So keep at your work, this faith and love rooted in Christ, exactly as I set it out for you. It’s as sound as the day you first heard it from me. Guard this precious thing placed in your custody by the Holy Spirit who works in us.

For Reflection 

Sometimes the pressure to conform to contemporary culture is quite strong.  We may be tempted to not speak out against willful transgressions or injustices.  We may not be willing to forgive.  We may not want to expose ourselves to criticisms of weakness, naivete, or lack of reason.  We may be pressured to go along to get along.  These are the times we need to turn to God and find creative ways dealing with the circumstance.

Pray

that you will consult the Lord for guidance and support.  Pray that you will find ways to speak up for justice, compassion, and forgiveness.