Why There is Hope When Everyone Abandons You

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, October 19, 2021

But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me

2 Timothy 4:17 (NKJV)

Do you often feel lonely and forsaken by those who should stand with and understand you?

Then you can understand Apostle Paul when he tells Timothy, “At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me.” (2 Timothy 4:16). This was when Paul faced Roman authorities in defense of his faith.

From Second Timothy 4:9-15, we learn that Demas had forsaken Paul and reverted to a life of sin. Alexander, the coppersmith had done some harm to Paul. Due to various genuine reasons, Crescens, Titus and Tychicus had left. Only Luke was with Paul.

Without the support of fellow Christians and gospel minister, Paul may have felt lonely, despondent and forsaken. That is why he told Timothy, “Be diligent to come to me quickly.” (2 Timothy 4:9).

What gave Paul comfort and confidence during his lonely trial? He says, “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear.” (2 Timothy 4:17).

God stood with His servant Paul. He gave Paul strength to go through the trial and related difficulties. Paul’s confidence came from knowing God’s presence was with him. It did not matter that the human beings he expected to support him were missing in action.

In life, you will have lonely moments, especially when you stand by unpopular truth. People will misunderstand you. Your friends, family and fellow believers could abandon you. Take heart, though, because God will stand by you and strengthen you.

Lord Jesus, thank You because, unlike human beings, You will never abandon me in my tough moments.