But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. II Timothy 3:14 NLT

Do you remember the popular slogan used by Farmers Insurance in one of its commercials: "We know a lot because we've seen a lot"? The purpose of this commercial was to let people know they could depend on this insurance company for every insurance concern they encountered because they had already covered several unusual events in the lives of their members.

The apostle Paul sought to let Timothy, his son in the ministry know the same thing about his life. As a young pastor, Timothy was discouraged about his new role so Paul encouraged Timothy to look at Paul's life - his teachings, his purpose for living, his faith, his love, his patient endurance and his suffering. If Timothy could see all that God had accomplished in Paul's life as a missionary, he could draw strength from knowing God could accomplish the same thing in his life as a young pastor.

Are you discouraged? Discouraged because life is not going as planned? Discouraged because you're wondering if God can take care of this problem happening in your life today? Then take a moment to reflect on what you already know about your heavenly father - His unending love for you, His promise to never leave nor forsake you through the difficult seasons of your life, and the provisions He's already given to meet your needs. Then rest in knowing He can take care of whatever life has brought your way today, because He already has!

Sharing the Word,

Jeaninne

Prayer: Father, when I doubt whether you can take care of the problem I am facing today, remind me to think back about how you took care of me yesterday. Amen.