Verses 1-5
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Timothy was sent to the church to encourage them, as they were going through hard persecutions. He encouraged them by telling them that they were appointed to persecutions.
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Understand that it is important to be persecuted in order for our faith to be strengthened (Acts 14:22, 2 Timothy 3:12, Philippians 1:29).
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Verse 5. Satan wants to use times of suffering to tempt us to give up on our faith. Don't be fooled. If you do not give up, you will be strengthened, and good will come in the end.
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Verses 6-11
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Verses 7-8. It brings comfort and joy to you when people you love are excelling in their faith.
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When your fellow believers “stand fast in the Lord” it is life-giving to you.
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Verse 10. So, earnestly desire and pray to be with believers and to help each other to grow in areas where you lack.
Verses 12-13
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When you abound in love for others, you won't sin.
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Perfect love is the way to perfect holiness (1 John 2:10, Matthew 5:44-48).
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Focus on growing in love for others, and you will grow well in holy living. Pray to grow in love.
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