Scripture for Today: II Timothy 4:2 “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.”

With availability all year round for some produce, the concept of “in season” or “out of season” can sometimes no longer apply!  But for the pumpkin, there is no question of when it is in season!  I see the fields off the freeway dotted with orange and they have invaded the grocery stores.  In fact, in warm Southern California, it is about the only indication that autumn has arrived!

Today’s verse talks about something that is not to change regardless of the seasons, and that is sharing the truth of God’s Word.  It is always timely and speaks to every season, every year and every century!  There is an urgency to this command as there will come a time when people will not put up with biblical truth. (verse 3)  Paul encourages young Timothy not to wait for some other time that seems more favorable.  The time is now to correct and rebuke with truth while they will still listen.  Hearing the truth of God’s Word will encourage the hearer when done with patience and careful instruction.

Because people are not so open to hearing God’s truth, I tend to forget to be prepared for those small windows of opportunity to share when they will still listen.  God continues to draw people to Himself, even in the middle of an increasingly hostile-to-the-Gospel culture.  It is “not easy and pleasant to hear” about one’s need (verse 3)  And more often than not, those around me may turn their ears away from the truth. (verse 4) But the Lord only asks me to be faithful to share the truth of His incredible forgiveness.

Help me Lord, to be prepared and available.