“But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth.” 2 Timothy 4:17 (NASB)
This is the testimony of the Apostle Paul, imprisoned a second time and on trial in Rome. Paul tells Timothy how the Lord helped him in that court appearance. All had deserted him so when Paul was summoned to testify before a Roman tribunal no other person was there to help him. But Paul did not stand alone. He said the Lord stood at his side and gave him strength. The Lord fulfills His promise never to “leave or forsake” His children. That must have been comforting for Paul. He knew that though alone with no friends he was conscious that the Lord stood right there at his side. Jesus promises this to be our experience too. He assures us that whatever we face, even if it is the ultimate sacrifice, the Lord is with us. Paul knew his time on earth would soon be done, “the time of my departure has come.” v. 6 Remember each morning God’s promise to be with us always, especially when we need Him as He was with Paul. Paul said, “…the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength…” He will give you strength also.
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