READING: 2 Timothy 4:13
I’m always struck by the fact that the apostle Paul, even as he approached his death, asked his colleague to bring his books to him: “When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments” (2 Tim 4:13). It’s possible Paul was requesting copies of the Old Testament to read, but the text doesn’t give us details about the content of the scrolls. What’s intriguing to me is Paul’s desire to keep learning regardless of where he was on his journey. It’s as if he wanted to be studying and writing as he died.
Thus, Paul illustrates for us the need to keep growing, keep studying, and keep teaching others as long as God gives us life. Christianity allows for no retirement in following Christ; instead, God continues the process of making us like His Son as we seek Him every day. For that reason, discipleship doesn’t end, either. No matter how old we are or how long we’ve followed Christ, we always, always have room for growth.
For your practical discipleship tip this week, here’s my suggestion: adopt not only a Scripture reading plan, but also an overall reading plan each year. Set a goal for the number and types of books you’ll read each year – and keep growing.
PRAYER: “God, forgive me if I’ve stopped growing. Grant me a strong interest in knowing You better.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Judges 6:1-7:23, Luke 11:14-36