There are times when we can feel under pressure for our belief in Christ. In parts of the world today, and in Paul's time, this can involve physical threats to life, family and well-being. Even in our society this pressure is starting to affect people's careers, viz. the opprobrium poured on anyone who in the least way questioned the wisdom of same-sex marriage. This pressure can come because of our allegiance to Christ and our connection with His servants. This is why Paul in verse 8 talks about Christ and himself as a prisoner. Paul's first instruction is for Timothy not to be ashamed, and this follows on from his words on the Spirit being a Spirit of power, love and self-control. We need to stand up proud for Christ. We also need to stand by fellow Christians when they suffer. Next we are to be prepared to suffer. Note that we do this by the power of God. There are some who make proud boasts of their commitment to Christ, but like with Peter this usually does not end well. Most of us probably wonder how we would manage if real pressure was put upon us for our faith. Would we manage to remain faithful? The answer, as to most questions, is faith. Faith that God will help us in the midst of the attack. Indeed, Jesus told His disciples not to worry about what to say when called to give an account, for the Holy Spirit would help them.
The best preparation for tomorrow is to live by faith today. We have been called to a life of holiness, and have been so because of the purpose and grace of God. This grace was given to us before the beginning of time. God has always been working so that the name of Christ is glorified, and that we become like His Son. We need to look at life not in terms of what I can do, or what I am capable of, but in terms of what Christ is doing and can do through me and in me. It is God's work in my life that counts. So we live each day by faith, walking humbly with our God.
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