Some people are known for being quarrelsome aren’t they? We all end up at some point in the middle of an argument and hopefully it isn’t too heated. But how should we be? Paul pours out his heart to his spiritual son. He has been in a few arguments himself. He’s older and wiser now. Here’s what he says:
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (2 Timothy 2 v 22-26)
Paul says:
- It’s not about who wins arguments but who can gently lead people to a place where their hearts can be transformed.
- Flee (many youthful things but perhaps especially the need to be right), pursue, avoid (don’t have anything to do) and gently instruct/teach are the key discipleship traits Paul has learnt.
- Wisdom is needed when to engage and when to step back. Sometimes we have to flee and sometimes pursue etc.
- There are some things we cannot do and have to leave it to God – “in the hope that God will grant them repentance.” Changing hearts is God’s work, not ours.
- Our role is to create space for His Spirit to work through our kindness and patience.
- When we argue to win rather than to love, we often harden the very hearts we hope to reach.
Today if you find yourself in an argument then pursue righteousness with a gentle spirit and ask for wisdom when to speak and when to listen deomosntrating love to the person opposing you.
Missions Paul 