[Devotional] IN HIS PRESENCE: Bring me the parchments

Read: 2 Timothy 4:9-16

Meditation verse:

“Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books,  especially the parchments” (2 Timothy 4:13).

Locked up in a cold and damp prison, faced with execution, Paul the Apostle  asked for three items; his coat to help him stay warm, some books and especially  the parchments. A parchment is a flat thin material made from the prepared  skin of an animal and used as a writing surface in ancient times. Bible scholar,  William Barclay suggests that the parchments Paul was referring to were  Hebrew scriptures, because the Hebrews had written their sacred scriptures in  parchments made from animal skins. 2 Timothy 3:16 says “All Scripture is given  by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction,  for instruction in righteousness”. Paul had lived his life for the cause of the  gospel. Now in the darkest moment, he knew the word would profit him and  that was what he wanted the most.  

When life deals its deadly blows and you feel too discouraged to pray, what do  you hold on to? What do you count as important in your darkest moments? Over  the years, I formed the habit of journaling every day. In my journals, I write down  my favorite scriptures, God’s promises over my life as well as the messages I  hear in my spirit during my personal devotions. In my dark moments, I take hold  of my journals and as I go through its pages, I am reminded of God’s love, grace  and ever abiding presence, which brings comfort and encouragement to my  soul. The psalmist cried out to God in his dark moment “O my God, my soul is  cast down within me; therefore, I will remember You from the land of the  Jordan…” (Psalm 42:6). Icons of God’s faithfulness in the past are helpful  resources in times of trouble. My journals are my parchments; there are usually  the first items I put in my travel suitcase.  

Your parchments could be your bible, your personal devotion notebooks, a diary  of God’s promises over you based on His word or even your sermon notes from  church. Whatever it is, be certain to hold on tightly to it. That way wherever you  go and whatever comes your way in this new month, even if you get stripped of  everything else, you can quickly say like Paul “bring me the parchments”.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Pst (Mrs) Oke Chinye, Founder of The Rock Teaching Ministry (TRTM).

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