As Paul is ending this great book of faith, companionship, and mentoring, he concludes with two important thoughts. First is a plea to Timothy to join him. This is very reflective of the relationship they have built. It is also important for us to see that relationships here on earth are vitally important. It is through our relationships that we are able to see God’s strength and love in our lives. While relationships are not perfect examples of God’s love, they are the path He uses every day to encourage and strengthen us. We need to focus on being that friend, mentor and encourager to others, so that they are pleading to have us by their side in times of need.Second is to see God as the ultimate source of our strength. While Timothy is VERY important to Paul as a friend and encourager, Paul understands the ultimate strength is found in God. He sees this both as he remembers and acknowledges what has kept him safe and sound, but also uses that history to remind and confirm to himself that the future is also secure. Beginning at verse 17 he emphasizes the power God was in his life [emphasis mine], “But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength…I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.” And what was this all for? Paul’s pleasure and delight? Of course not. Paul knew it was “…so that through [him] the [Gospel] message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it.”This week determine what God has done to protect and secure you, and then thank Him for His power and love.