New Testament: Paul's Affection for Timothy

2 Timothy 1:1-7, Moroni 8:3, 9:6, 22, 25

Both Paul and Mormon said that they prayed always for their sons, that they would have faith and joy. They talk about not being fearful, instead having confidence in the power of the Lord, and laboring and working to have a sound mind.

I think Paul mentioned Timothy's mother's and grandmother's faith because they are the ones who inspired his unfeigned faith, and taught him to live that way. They are also family, who he probably feels he can trust and look up to always and in times of trial.

Paul assured Timothy that "God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." This helps me in my life because I am often afraid. I can be afraid of making a wrong decision, not being accepted by those around me, or of not having enough money or intelligence to be successful. However, if instead of fearing I turn to the Lord and ask for His power and guidance in my life, I can have faith that He will pull me through, and that I will do the right thing. I can trust that as long as I am accepted by Him, I will be okay. As I love others and serve them, I will overcome my own fears and trials.



2 Timothy 1:15-18

Paul blessed Onesiphorus with the mercy of the Lord. He did this because of previous kindness and hospitality Onesiphorus had shown to him. He sought him out, taught him, and refreshed him. Matthew 25:35-40 describes how we can also receive these blessings. As we serve our neighbors, even the least of them, we are doing it unto the Lord. Then, as described in verse 34, we can inherit the kingdom of God
As for the chain Paul refers to, I think it symbolizes his dedication to Christ. Matthew 11:29-30 talks about taking His yoke upon us, and learning of Him, and we shall find rest. Paul knew that as he dedicated himself to Christ there would be an eternal reward. Jacob 1:8 says that all men should believe in Christ and suffer His cross. In this way, Paul bore His cross as he taught the gospel and suffered persecution for His sake. This was his chain.