Stay In The Game

From Morning Tea.

"Bring .. . . the books, especially the parchments." 2 Timothy 4:13 NKJV

Sitting on death row, with only days left to live and no hope of a reprieve, Paul writes to Timothy and says:
(1) "Bring my books." He wants to keep taking in!
(2) "And bring my writing paper." He wants to keep giving out! What an attitude!

He doesn't ask for an attorney, because real purpose needs no defense. Time will tell the world what you did. And he doesn't ask for better accommodations, for he's "learned to be content" (Philippians 4:11 NIV).

First, he sends for a book, because he knows that as long as you're alive you must continue to grow, otherwise you're just taking up space. Reading allows you to transcend any situation and explore new worlds. Knowledge keeps your mind sharp and your soul free. Peter says, "Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord" (2 Peter 3:18).

Next, he sends for writing paper, because he wants to keep making a difference. He ignores his circumstances, grabs his pen and continues to be productive. No tears. No gut-wrenching displays of self-pity. "I've still got something else to say, and I want to say it! I'm not done yet!" The art of living, is to keep giving to the end! Even on the cross, with nails piercing His hands and His feet, Jesus continued to minister and He is our example!

So Paul, the old Father of Truth, teaches us the most important lesson of all; never get out of the game, for even in the last few seconds, a touchdown is still possible.

Shelly's Notes:

Today in my quiet time I read in Joshua.....if you have not read the book of Joshua, read at least the first 5-6 chapters. Especially those of us who are really striving for "larger than life" goals. It was a real encouragement to me today.

One of the things in the "devotional" section of my bible in Joshua 1 says this: Often times we ask God for guidance, what we really want is a Guide.

"Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the Lord you God will be with you wherever you go" Joshua 1:9