July 11: Rescued from the lion’s mouth

At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.   (2 Timothy 4:16-18 — New American Standard Bible)

Paul was tried before Emperor Nero two different times — the most evil, murderous ruler of that age. No one stood by Paul or gave him support in his first trial. Those who could have spoken in his favor deserted him. But God stood at his side, and gave him strength not just to answer the charges against him, but to deliver a strong message about the Lord Jesus to all the people in Caesar's court. The Emperor of Rome, his officials, and everyone else in that room heard the Good News of Jesus Christ. Though he was in danger of being martyred for his faith, Paul was concerned about saving his accuser’s souls.

As God's people, we often face struggles and hardship alone. When we are not alone, we frequently have to take the lead and be the strong one of our group. A life of faith often demands that we walk alone — at times God arranges for us to be alone so that we rely on Him completely, and at other times no one else close to us has the faith that we have. But whatever the case, as Paul asked God not to count it against them, we cannot blame others or become bitter when people desert us. This is a part of the life we’ve chosen — a life of raw, undiluted faith. 

Paul was rescued from the lion’s mouth… This may be a metaphor for his legal troubles or his spiritual battle, but could just as easily stand for actual lions. It is generally accepted that Nero set Rome on fire to make room for his construction projects, and then turned around and blamed Christians for the fire. And so, during his rule Christians were routinely crucified, burned at the stake, and fed to wild animals. Even so, Paul’s message is a strong one. He is sure that God will rescue him from every evil, and that He will bring him safely to His heavenly kingdom.

If Paul could have this confidence in the face of such danger and hatred, shouldn’t we? We belong to God, and whether we live or die, our lives are in His hands. We should not live in fear or worry.