Shooting Straight

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.  And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. (2 Timothy 2:23-24)

“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments…”

Paul, the writer of this portion of Scripture is getting right to the point.  He’s not beating around the bush like some people tend to do.  He’s not hinting at what we should do with our lives.  He says it directly and clearly.  We are to have nothing to do with conversation that is foolishness.  When was the last time you had a foolish conversation with someone?  Did you share something that didn’t need to be shared?  Have your words been uplifting lately?  Have you been argumentative?  Paul expressed the need to not get into stupid arguments.  Arguing leads you no where fast and is not helpful when showing people who Jesus is. Avoid arguments as much as possible!

“…because you know they produce quarrels…”

Arguments lead to quarrels.  They do not produce good things.  Have you ever seen an argument lead to something good?  I know that arguments tend to make me tense and I want out of the conversation as quick as possible.  I do not enjoy argumentative communication.  Communication can be effective when done in a loving way and through a kind heart.  It’s all in how you present it.  How are your communication skills these days?  Are you communicating effectively?

“…And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel…”

This part of the verse is very simple.  We are instructed to not quarrel.  Is there anyone in your life that you are fighting with?  Do you need to ask for forgiveness?  Do you need to stop fighting and focus on the relationship you have with this person?  God has called you to act in love.  How will you follow through on this act today?

“…instead, he must be kind to everyone…”

Let your kindness be evident to all those who know you.  The Scripture does not say you can pick and choose who you will be kind to.  It says you must be kind to everyone.  Is there someone you have shown a lack of kindness to?  It does not matter if you know them personally or not.  Each person that you come in contact with needs to know the love of Jesus.  They might come to know the love of Jesus through your act of kindness.  You need to make a conscious decision to be kind to every person you meet.  Who will you be kind to today?

“…able to teach, not resentful.”

God wants us to be teachable and able to teach others.  I know that I am learning on a daily basis all the things that I desire to be in God.  I’m so grateful for the things that God teaches me.  His Word reveals marvelous treasures every day that help me become a better person.  Are you allowing God to teach you through His Word?

Dear Father God, Please keep me from getting into foolish arguments.  May I be aware of the opportunities I have to show Your kindness and love to the people around me.  Please continue to teach me and help me teach others.  I love You Lord and I desire to become all that You want me to be.

Shooting Straight in God’s Word,