Bring me my cloak

When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:13-18 ESV)

Tonight's passage struck me as so "human" of Paul, yet also so demonstrative of God's power.  Paul asks Timothy to bring him his cloak, (winter was near) books, and parchments, and warns him of Alexander.  He tells of how no one stood with him in his defense (remember he is in prison at this point) yet God stood by him and used it as an opportunity for him to share the gospel in front of all.  Imagine Paul being in court, on trial, standing before a Roman court, no one to stand in his defense or by his side, yet he uses this as an opportunity to boldly proclaim the gospel.  He was not executed, and He knew that The Lord was with him and he was strengthened by Him.  

What a powerful glimpse at the faith of Paul and the realness of his relationship with Christ.  That is what relying on God looks like and a beautiful example of friendship (Paul and Timothy).