At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the proclamation might be fully made through me and all the Gentiles might hear. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 2 Timothy 4:16-17 HCSB
The associational youth camp had ended and it seemed everyone had left for home except me. It was my responsibility to put away the tables and chairs in the worship center to prepare for the next group. I felt as though I had been deserted. What a blessing it would have been if others had lingered to ask what they could do to help clean up and put things back in order.
Paul felt as though he had been deserted. When he went to trial there was no one there to support him and come to his defense. Even though Paul’s support was gone, God was with him and stood by him. Paul received strength from the Lord to face the difficult situation. With God’s strength Paul was able to boldly proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. The lion’s mouth was a metaphor that Paul used to denote death.
Challenge: Be assured that God is always with you and is willing to help as you strive to live for Him. God will stand with you when no one else will. Thank Him for his faithfulness to always be your strength and refuge. Read Psalm 46:1.