honorable use

Paul's second letter to his son in the faith, Timothy, is his farewell to him.

Paul knew he was going to die soon, so he's telling him lots of last minute things that Paul thinks is Timothy needs to know.

I've always found 2 Timothy to be a poignant letter. What would any of us write in a final letter to someone as dear to us as Timothy was to Paul if we knew that letter was the last thing we could say to them?

Although these verses were written to Timothy, a young man new to ministry, they apply to us as well as him.

2 Timothy 2

20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver,

and some are made of wood and clay.

The expensive utensils are used for special occasions,

and the cheap ones are for everyday use.

21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use.

Your life will be clean,

and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.

22 Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts.

Instead, pursue righteous living,

faithfulness,

love,

and peace.

Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.