Scripture
22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. 2 Tim 24-26
22-26Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God's servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil's trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands. 2 Tim 22-16 {The Message}
Observation
Paul is urging the followers of Christ to pursue mature righteousness of faith, love , peace. He urged us to avoid petty arguments but be a gentle listener who stay cool, yet firm, and patient with those who lack obedience. It is only God who can change the hearts and turn the hearts towards him.
Application
- Pray, Pray , Pray
- Pursue love, faith, peace and hope in God.
- We have to be quick to listen, slow to judge (this is Gods' role), be patient with those who slow to obey Him.
- To believe that God is the one who turns hardened hearts around. Believe that all things fall into His perfect timing.
Prayer
Father, thank you for affirming me. Indeed you are faithful to the core. I will abide in your wisdom and follow your ways.
Love,
Doreen C.
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