Strength to Endure

A final farewell, a piece of parting advice, a last request—when the end of life is near, the gravity of death adds weight to the words that are spoken. They make an impact. They stick with us. They leave their mark. The same is true of Paul's last letter to young Timothy. Writing from death row, Paul sent the letter to Timothy, his beloved son in the faith. Here are Paul’s last words to a “young buck,” his mature counsel about what really matters, his ultimate exhortations to Timothy—and to us. Guard the gospel. Be strong in grace. Pursue righteousness. Endure hardship. Fight the good fight. And above all, keep the faith. For the strength that enables us to endure is found in the One who rescued us, upholds us, and will carry us safely to the end.