For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. 2 Timothy 1:12 (King James Version)
Through a variety of circumstances, speakers, songs and scripture, I feel God has been studying my heart to see how deeply I trust Him. I’ve been doing this “Christian thing” for a number of years and I can perform pretty well. But life with Christ isn’t about performance. Performance can tie very closely to pride, I find. I want my faith to produce works that glorify God, not be about rote actions that make me look good.
As I sense God asking me if I really trust and know Him to work in my life and in the lives of others, this verse in 2 Timothy keeps coming to mind. I learned it as a hymn years ago. I decided to study up on this verse and also to revisit the words to this old hymn. First, in studying the verse, the words “believed” and “know” jumped out at me specifically. These are strong action verbs. The Greek word used for “know” is actually a past tense verb. To me, that said it’s not about thinking maybe I believe God or I will believe and trust Him after I learn a little more or go through more in life. Instead, it’s a definite belief... I know that I know that I know that God is trustworthy. I am praying to reach that point in my faith even more fully.
Next, I looked up the words to the hymn. They are beautiful and the author, Daniel Webster Whittle, was a soldier involved in the Civil War’s Battle of Vicksburg. As a mangled soldier, he turned to God’s word and found great peace and assurance. The first part of this verse, “For the which cause I also suffer these things...” means much more to Mr. Whittle than it probably ever will to me. Yet we both seek the same thing that millions of Christians search for; the faith to know Christ in every circumstance. And to trust “that He is able to keep all that which I have committed
unto Him.”
Following is a link to the hymn, “I Know Whom I Have Believed”
http://uponmyknees.wordpress.com/2007/04/29/i-know-whom-i-have-believed/
