The Apostle Paul lay chained in a dank and isolated prison while persecution, apostasy, and conflict ravaged the Church. He was old, facing near-certain death, and many of his associates had already turned from the faith. Even his beloved Timothy threatened to buckle under the strain. Times were dark, indeed. Yet Paul basked in the radiance of the Gospel and began his final letter with unmistakable confidence in the grace of His Savior. Such hope may be shared by every believer who finds their life in Christ and shines forth for His glory.