Finish Line Faith, 4: Our Heavenly Father will walk beside us
By Matt Proctor*
In 2 Timothy 1:8, Paul tells Timothy that the power to endure his present suffering will come from God. On the heels of 1:7, Paul is likely referring to the power of the Holy Spirit, which we discussed in last week’s post. The indwelling Holy Spirit is part of God’s gift of salvation, and it is the Spirit who gives believers the strength to live each day for God.
In this passage, Paul is saying, Don’t forget, Timothy. Remember again the Mighty Presence who makes himself available to you. The same Holy Spirit who strengthens me will strengthen you. The same Father who has given me power to endure will also empower you.
In the 1972 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Derek Redmond of Great Britain was a a favorite for a medal in the 400-meter race. The runners lined up, the gun sounded, and Derek quickly seized the lead.
But with 175 meters to go, Derek suddenly pulled up and fell to the track, clutching his right leg. He had pulled his hamstring. The other runners finished, and tears began to stream down his face. It appeared his Olympic dream was over.
Up in the stands, Derek’s father, Jim, watched in disbelief. Immediately he began racing down from the top row to the track, bumping some people and sidestepping others in his hurry. Later he told the press, “I wasn’t going to be stopped by anyone.”
Down on the track, Derek Redmond grimaced in pain, but he refused the medical crew with the stretcher. Instead, in a moment that will live forever in my mind, Derek lifted himself to his feet and began to hobble down the track, hopping on one leg.
He was not limping to the side of the track to drop out. No, he was going to finish the race on one leg. He would cross that finish line. The crowd stood to their feet and began to cheer, then roar. (See the video of the race here.)
Derek hobbled on, each step slower than the last, his face twisted in pain. Then unexpectedly, another figure ran onto the track behind him. Jim Redmond had leapt over the railing, evading security, and was now running alongside Derek.
The father put his arm around the son, and the son collapsed momentarily, sobbing into the father’s shoulder. Together, arm in arm—with 65,000 people clapping cheering, and crying—father and son finished the race.
And so it is with us and our Heavenly Father. He gives us the strength to finish the race.
Especially for Caregivers
When in your caregiving journey has the pain brought you to your knees? How did you find strength from God to carry on?
Make a list of at least three situations in your life today that threaten to keep you from the finish line. Ask God to walk beside you as you cope with each one. —M.T.
Read: 2 Timothy 1:8-12
Pray: As I reflect on the suffering in this world—and in my life, Lord—I realize again that you are the only source for surviving it. Give me the strength I need this week.
Olympic logo credit Joseph Maria Trias via Wikimedia Commons
* This devotion is adapted from a new book by Matt Proctor, president of Ozark Christian College (Joplin, Missouri) (c) 2024. Finish Line Faith is a 12-week study of 2 Timothy perfect for any group or Bible study, and this devotion gives only a taste of the down-to-earth encouragement it provides. Click here for information on ordering copies for yourself or your group.