Three Metaphors of Courage

“Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus…” — 2 Tim. 2:1

Paul encourages his son in the faith, Timothy, to have courage in his service for the Lord. Paul uses three metaphors:

1. Perspective of a soldier (read 2 Tim. 2:3-4). Soldiers need courage to disengage from the affairs of the world to engage in the battle that is going on. Christian, there is a battle, and we are all soldiers of Jesus Christ. Get in the fight!

2. Perspective of an athlete (read 2 Tim. 2:5). An athlete practices the right habits and discipline before game day. The race is not won on the day of the race, but in the daily practice that occurs before the race. Christian, if you want to win the prize, you must practice discipline now. “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.” (1 Cor. 9:24-25).

3. Perspective of a farmer (read 2 Tim. 2:6). A farmer sows his seed, but must wait for a harvest. Christian, do you get discouraged because you see no visible results for your labor for the Lord? Don’t lose hope! A harvest is coming. Keep your tractors running!

Don’t lose hope. Fight on ‘til Jesus come… Press on to the finish line… Be patient and you will reap if you faint not.