I read something interesting in 2 Timothy 2:24 you should reflect on when you have time…

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.

Who is “The Lord’s servant?”  Well… Paul wrote this to Timothy who was a minister.  So first I’d say it applies to all who are in the ministry.  On a larger scale it applies to all who serve the Lord… all Christians.

“Must not be quarrelsome.”  That would mean argumentative… contrary… constantly debating… contradicting others.  As it is written in James 1:20, “The anger of man does not produce the righteousness that God requires.”

“Kind to everyone.”  We know a kind person when we encounter them.  We see it in their eyes… hear it in their voice… their demeanor is pleasant.

“Able to teach.”  Strictly, if a person cannot faithfully and effectively teach Scripture… they are not qualified to be recognized as the Lord’s servant (This has nothing to do with seminary!).

“Patiently enduring evil.”  This is the phrase that grabbed my attention.  “Patiently enduring evil.”  When you serve the Lord… you will be opposed, attacked, maligned, belittled, and at times treated harshly (Philippians 1:29).  The response from the Lord’s servant is to endure it patiently!  ENDURE means don’t quit… don’t give up… don’t throw in the towel.  ENDURE can possibly also mean not to fight back as in “turn the other cheek.”  Evil is to be endured PATIENTLY!  Don’t whine… don’t be bitter… don’t get frustrated… don’t retaliate… don’t seek revenge.  Be patient by doing what is right in God’s sight… trusting Him to handle whatever you experience.

“Correcting his opponents with gentleness.”  Patiently enduring evil doesn’t mean being a doormat for abuse.  But the way the Lord’s servant responds to evil is with gentleness.  Gentleness is conciliatory… full of grace and mercy… calm… and patient.  Gentleness is an attitude of respect for others.  Gentleness is non-offensive.

Now.  Could I suggest we prayerfully ask God to work 2 Timothy 2:24 deep into our hearts and that we make conscious efforts to live it… for God’s glory?