Today, we are going to wrap up our look back at our recent series on 2 Timothy.  Check out this truth from 2 Timothy 4: 16-22.

Where are you in your life?  Do you expect the Lord to stand with you?  We need to expect the Lord to stand with us:

• When no one else does (vs. 16). In this verse, Stephen was alone – no one came to stand by him or support him.  But as he knew, we too must realize, Jesus will stand with us through it ALL.

• When you need strength (vs. 17a). “Stood” means “ to stand by one’s side, to come to.”  God’s power is sufficient: spiritually, as well as physically, mentally and emotionally.

• When you need to present the gospel to the lost (vs. 17b). We must recapture this conviction:  Lostness leads to hell.   Christ died for all sins and for all people everywhere.  We must share the Gospel with others.  In the name of Jesus, I call our church to:

1. Return to the gospel – it is our only hope today.
2. Become a “gospel-centered” church. This is urgent!  We must do this now – and if we do, I am confident that God will stand with us.

• When you are in danger (vs. 17c). Psalm 22:21 and Daniel 6:22 remind us that the Lord will stand with us in danger.

• When you face death (vs. 18). Paul knew he would be executed soon.  God does not always release us from our present danger of death or from the lion’s mouth of death!  BUT HE DOES promise to release you from this present evil world.  Insight:  Death is a rescue.  We are rescued from evil, pain and suffering.  You will be personally ushered into heaven.  Death brings glory to God.  God’s plan is fulfilled:  death to life!

When life is tough, please recall these Top Ten Ways to Make It Through Difficult Times:

1. Know You Are Saved
2. Hold On To The Grace of God
3. Work On Your Walk With Christ
4. Make The Right Choices
5. Understand The Times
6. Continue In The Sacred Scriptures
7. Accomplish Your Life Purpose
8. Live For Eternity
9. Discern Whom You Can Trust
10. Expect The Lord To Stand With You

Only through God – will we live victorious lives!
Live in victory today!