“Do your best to
present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be
ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
(2 Timothy 2:14-26)
instructs those whom He knows are His; and don’t we aspire to be
recognized as such, to be approved by God? He tells us to avoid godless chatter
(gossip), because we will become more and more ungodly. God warns that what we
say can affect others, even destroying the faith of some. Heaven forbid we
should say anything to do such damage!
Approved we flee the
evil desires of youth we pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace. We don’t
have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments because we know they only
produce quarrels. As God’s servants we mustn’t quarrel; instead we must be
kind, able to teach, and be not resentful.
Approved we are to
gently instruct those who oppose us, hoping God will grant them repentance and
lead them to the knowledge of His truth.
Approved we take on
more of the image of Christ before others so He may be glorified. Just as the
apostle John said, “I must decrease so He may increase.” As workmen approved by
God we are to leave that old self and those foolish ways we used to follow by
not arguing, gossiping or leaning toward the evil trappings of Satan who wishes
for us to do his will.
Desire to be and
become a servant of God; a workman approved by God.