“Keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.”
2 Timothy 4:5 (NLT)
Paul sets the stage with a sobering reminder: Jesus will judge the living and the dead. With eternity in view, Timothy is told to preach the Word. That means correcting, rebuking, and then encouraging with good teaching. If we skip correction and rebuke, we end up telling people what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear.
That’s why Paul presses Timothy—and us—to keep a clear mind and not fear suffering. Fear keeps us silent. But suffering is not a sign of failure; it’s a mark of faith. “For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:5 NLT). God’s comfort is greater than the pain, and suffering for the truth shapes us for eternity.
Every believer has a ministry. It’s not limited to pulpits—it’s in homes, workplaces, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods. Wherever you go, that’s your ministry. Paul didn’t tithe a portion of his life to God; he poured it all out as an offering. That’s what it means to finish the race and fight the good fight.
Paul looked ahead with confidence: “the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8 NLT). The crown of righteousness is a promise secured in Christ, but it is received by those who remain faithful and finish the work God entrusted to them.