Even strong men such as Timothy needed to be encouraged to stand fast in the face of hard times, as is evident from this paragraph:

1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 

2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. 

3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 

4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 

5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 

6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. 

7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.

~ 2 Timothy 2:1-7

Holy God, I am grateful for the godly men that You have brought into my life. They have all helped me to draw closer to You, and I am thankful for the spiritual growth I have experienced through Jesus. The lessons and examples that I have been blessed with, I want to pass on to other faithful men who will also be able to teach others. Please give me the strength to endure like a good soldier, always focused on spiritual matters. Help me to have the discipline to do everything according to Your will, and may I sincerely practice what I learn from You. Lord, please grant me understanding in all things! Amen.