But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
(2 Timothy 2:23-26, NASB)
Sometimes I read the Bible about how I as a follower of Christ am supposed to behave, and I think, “There’s no way …”
Today’s verses are no exception.
I’m to not be quarrelsome. I’m to be kind to all. I’m to be able to teach (oh … that’s not so bad!). I’m to be patient when wronged. I’m to gently correct those who are in opposition.
Really? Nothing like feeling totally inadequate.
And I am inadequate—on my own, that is. Praise God, I’m not alone in this journey. The Holy Spirit is in me to help me be all God the Father has created me to be. When I feel quarrelsome, I can ask for a heart of peace. When I feel unkind, I can ask for compassion. When I want revenge, I can ask for the ability to forgive.
So why do I want to be kind and patient with others anyway? So that, by Christ’s example shining through me, others may want the same peace and compassion I feel. They may want to know about my Savior. They may seek repentance.
And by my Christ-like behavior, they may “come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil.”
And if that’s the end result? Striving to be kind and patient and compassionate—even when it totally goes against my fleshly nature—is totally worth it!
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