Devotional: Family Legacy

2 Timothy 1:5-9 When I was in the seventh grade I get into trouble for talking in the classroom while the teacher was out of the room. Mr. Caldwell called me to his desk although there were several other names on the list for those talking instead of reading our book. Mr. Caldwell began to tell me that more is expected of me because I am one of the Myles children. Myles children all have a history of being well behaved, and they are honor students. I reject being compared to my brothers and sisters. Later, as an adult I am going through a very difficult period in my life. I am alone in a city far from home. I am not sure who I can trust and depend upon. One day a question comes to my mind. “Who are you?” I think about this for awhile and then I answer my own question. “You are a Myles,” I said to myself. In the seventh grade I do not care about the family expectations. Now, knowing my family legacy gives me a sense of strength and stability. I can make it regardless of the circumstances because my family legacy tells me so. In our text the apostle Paul writes to his protégé, Timothy; who is a son in the ministry. We meet Timothy in Acts 16:1-3. Paul takes this young man with him on Paul’s missionary journeys. Timothy is experiencing some difficult days. He is becoming discouraged. Paul encourages Timothy by reminding him that faith is a key component of his family’s legacy; especially his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice (v. 5). If Timothy will hold to the family legacy, he will have a spirit of power, love, and discipline which will enable him to be an effective minister for Jesus Christ. Prayer: Father, we thank you for our family; especially the family of God. Our union with you and our brothers and sisters in Christ give us strength when we are going through difficult days. Amen.