Saved from the Lion's Mouth

2 Tim. 4:17

But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. 

Though Paul was deserted by man, it didn't matter. It may have been disheartening [which I think it was or he wouldn't have mentioned it.], but the Lord stood by him giving him all the strength that he needed for that particular situation. And that is the way it is always! This certainly was a message that Timothy needed. There would be many times in his ministry when he would stand alone, but the Lord would always be there. Support from man is always off-again on-again because man is so easily swayed. Sadly, it shouldn't be that way for Christians. They should all stand in support of one another when it comes to spreading the gospel or standing for Jesus. Something that any and all believers should remember is that the Lord will always be there to strengthen and sustain. What a great Savior! His watch care always supersedes man's!

Not only did the Lord strengthen Paul personally, but he furthered the message and his ministry. God works in ways not understood by man. Perhaps more people would come to Jesus by seeing Paul suffer than by listening to him preach. Who knows? Only God! What it demands is trust! Paul could attest to the fact that he was rescued from the lion's mouth, but it would not be that way every time. God might choose to take one of His beloved home, as He did Paul. Once again, not for man to understand, but for him merely to accept. Trust!!

Father,

Grow my trust in You so that whatever comes my way I can rely on You and not falter when man deserts. You are an amazing God who has chosen to come to man and to me personally. Thank You!

In Jesus name,

Amen