We should always remember 'The Word of God is not chained' . We should allow the Word to do its work. It kept Paul going through all sorts of trials and difficulties and it will do the same for us. If we persevere with Christ, we will share in His glory. And even if we are faithless, He is faithful, for we are part of Him now. Such is the assurance of Paul to Timothy and to us.

If the New Testament consisted of only the Great Commandment from Mark, we would have enough to lead a holy life and be with God forever. Although it is not always easy, it is not at all complicated. We are to love God with everything we have - heart, mind and soul - and our neighbor as ourselves. We cannot love God if we do not love others - we are all part of one another and of God. The idea that we are separate from one another - little self-sufficient islands - is a dangerous illusion. This is all God wants or requires from us, to love with everything at our disposal, but people often want to distract God by asking for all sorts of 'gifts' and 'favors.' God has clearly stated what is expected of us. Let us repeat these verses to ourselves throughout the days and weeks of our lives as a constant reminder.