2 Timothy 2:19-26
In 2 Timothy Paul is giving Timothy instruction and counsel. He's basically charging Timothy to maintain the proper mindset, attitude and lifestyle going forward. When we get to chapter 2, Paul's counsel turns to being clean and pure, and he even gives some specific examples of ways to accomplish that.
Well, I'm guessing Paul's charge inspired Timothy because it inspired me. As I finished the passage, my thought was... I want to be "a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work" (vs. 19).
So are you with me, wanting to be an honorable vessel? So how do we make that happen, and what did you learn from Paul about getting there? Anything else you might you add? Tami W.
I like this passage. It is a good reminder to avoid quarrels and grow up! It basically teaches proper social etiquette - and gives the reason for it.
This is a good verse. I just need to grow up and not start so much stuff with my mouth. I have been praying for God to take away my hardened heart and give me a heart of flesh
We need to step back from the intensity of the moment and look at life from the eternal perspective. That will help keep us from getting pulled into petty arguments. I like the part about how our attitudes and behaviors can affect others. Our attitudes and behaviors really are an unspoken testimony to others. How many times do people discount what we say because of our selfish behaviors? Our entire life is our testimony, and speaks louder than what we say!
Perhaps what strikes me the most in this passage is verse 24: "A servant of the Lord must not quarrel, but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.". There's no doubt our main objective is to be a "servant of the Lord," and though the way to achieve that is simply listed, it's rather difficult to play out in real life. Seems that it's so much easier to "be kind" to people who are nice and like-able; not so easy to show Christ's love to those who aren't so live-able. Not to mention the patience involving difficult people part! But, how great a God that He's willing to chisel my soul as He sees fit, in order to make this come about. I don't have to have all the answers, just be willing for Him to work.
I was inspired too by this passage. I so need His help to be an honorable vessel.