¹² which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me.^[a] (2 Timothy 1:12 ESV)

There is some controversy around exactly what Paul was referring to Christ guarding in our scripture today. Maybe I am simplifying the passage too much, but it seems to me he is talking about Christ guarding Paul’s faith and His message.

Christ has set Paul on a very specific mission and He was going to see His disciple through to its completion. Paul was facing stiff resistance from both the Jewish community, its leaders and even the Roman government. He was seen as a troublemaker and conspirator. Thus, he spent a lot of time in prison, where he continued to preach Christ message.

Through it all, until the end that was appointed to him, Christ guarded Paul’s faith and his message. When God sets us on a path, He will see us through that journey.