Micah 4, 2 Timothy 1

Micah 4

Matthew Henry’s words on today’s reading: “The nations have not yet so submitted to the Prince of Peace, as to beat their swords into ploughshares, nor has war ceased. But very precious promises these are, relating to the gospel church, which will be more and more fulfilled, for He is faithful that has promised. There shall be a glorious church for God set up in the world, in the last days, in the days of the Messiah. Christ himself will build it upon a rock. The Gentiles worshipped their idol gods; but in the period spoken of, the people will cleave to the Lord with full purpose of heart, and delight in doing his will. The word to “halteth, to” describes those who walk not according to the Divine word. The collecting the captives from Babylon was an earnest of healing, purifying, and prospering the church; and the reign of Christ shall continue till succeeded by the everlasting kingdom of heaven. Let us stir up each other to attend the ordinances of God, that we may learn his holy ways, and walk in them, receiving the law from his hands, which, being written in our hearts by his Spirit, may show our interest in the Redeemer's righteousness.” (Micah 4:9-13)

2 Timothy 1

I love how Paul starts his letters: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.”

Timothy knows who he is. Timothy even knows where his hope comes from. But not only does Paul remind him in these words, I believe he is reminding himself. Paul takes every moment to tangibly put himself in his right place… under the authority and provision of God. And he celebrates it.

Paul calls himself a messenger (apostle) of a message (promise) that literally translates to being a “Divine assurance of Good”. And it’s God’s will (desire) that he shares it.

I’m struck by how much more appealing to my spirit it is to hear a “divine assurance of good”, rather than all the other Churchy words we use to share faith. I’m refreshed by that sentence. I want to share that with the world. I want to bask in that personally. I want to discover what that really means to me and for others. It’s divine. It’s good. And we can be assured of it through Jesus Christ alone. Praise God!

God, may we not only live the good news, but may we share it. Give us your perspective, to see with your eyes, to process with your wisdom, to feel it with your heart.