The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient, instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth. 2 Timothy 2:24-25 CSB

Our verses for today were written in a letter by the apostle Paul to Timothy. Paul is in prison in Rome and Timothy, a young man who had traveled with Paul, is with the church in Ephesus. Some false teachers are telling the people things that are not part of the good news about Jesus that Paul preached. The false teachers are preaching stories and myths that are not part of the Word of God.

So, Paul writes a letter to Timothy to encourage him and give him advice on how to handle these false teachers who are confusing the people of the church at Ephesus. Paul first calls Timothy “the Lord’s servant.” A servant is a devoted and helpful follower. Paul and Timothy are both the Lord’s servants because they are followers of Jesus and tell others about Him. And do you know what? If you are a follower of Jesus, you are the Lord’s servant, too!

Now let’s look at the advice that Paul gives Timothy, and all of us who are the Lord’s servants. Paul tells Timothy not to quarrel, or argue, with the false teachers. Do you know people who just like to argue? No matter what you say they like to disagree and start an argument, or quarrel. Paul suggests that you don’t even start to argue.

Next Paul encourages Timothy to be gentle and patient when talking to people. He is to teach and instruct with gentleness. Paul says that those that he is speaking with may even see the truth of Jesus and become followers of Him, too. Have you ever heard the saying, “actions speak louder than words?” It means that the way you act with others is more important than the words that you might say to them. Paul is saying that if Timothy is gentle and kind like Jesus, that others may be convinced that Timothy speaks the truth and want to be like Jesus, too.

This week, try to be like Timothy and take Paul’s advice. Be the Lord’s servant. Be gentle and patient with people. Let your actions speak louder than your words. Be kind and patient and gentle when you share with others about Jesus. Talk with your parents. Maybe you can practice on them!

Blessings, joy and gentleness as the Lord’s servant!