2 Timothy 2
Paul writes to Timothy, who by most accounts is younger than many other church leaders at the time - perhaps easily swayed by others the same age pursuing earthly influences. This of course strikes a chord given Zach and Dustin's age and my role. I continue to encourage both of them to "[f]lee the evil desires of youth". Yet in Paul's message there is of course guidance for us all.
I often find myself in "foolish and stupid arguments", being "quarrelsome" and I am reminded to "gently instruct" those who I desire to lead "to a knowledge of the truth".
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has given me truth and wisdom - I know You are not done with me, yet I am grateful for what You have done for me and continue to do for me. Thank You Jesus for the blessings You pour out for me. I am undeserving. I sin...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
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. v22
Paul writes to Timothy, who by most accounts is younger than many other church leaders at the time - perhaps easily swayed by others the same age pursuing earthly influences. This of course strikes a chord given Zach and Dustin's age and my role. I continue to encourage both of them to "[f]lee the evil desires of youth". Yet in Paul's message there is of course guidance for us all.
Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 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. v23-26
I often find myself in "foolish and stupid arguments", being "quarrelsome" and I am reminded to "gently instruct" those who I desire to lead "to a knowledge of the truth".
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has given me truth and wisdom - I know You are not done with me, yet I am grateful for what You have done for me and continue to do for me. Thank You Jesus for the blessings You pour out for me. I am undeserving. I sin...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
