1
Timothy, my dear son, be strong with the special favor God gives you in Christ Jesus.
2
You have heard me teach many things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Teach these great truths to trustworthy people who are able to pass them on to others.
3
Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
4
And as Christ's soldier, do not let yourself become tied up in the affairs of this life, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.
5
Follow the Lord's rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rules or is disqualified and wins no prize.
6
Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor.
7
Think about what I am saying. The Lord will give you understanding in all these things.
Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved. (New Living Translation)