2 Timothy 2:20-26 SOAP: 2:23-26
23 Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
SOAP
One of the many ways we can get distracted and off course in our witness is through our words. We are reminded over and over again in the Bible to speak the truth in LOVE. So many times I’ve had to check my heart when I’ve been tempted to argue over a section of the Bible when others couldn’t see the truth. Instead of responding with love and sharing truth from God’s Word, I’ve found myself frustrated and judgmental. Paul tells us that arguing is not the way to share God’s Word. When people disagree or don’t understand, we are to respond with gentleness and love.
Dear Jesus,
Help me to live Your truth out in my life. Help me remember that You do not delight in arguments or heated debates, but rather You want us to share Your truth from a heart of love and compassion. Help me to emulate You and realize that the work of salvation is ultimately in Your hands. Remind me to take the pressure off of myself and share Your truth in love and gentleness. Amen.