Reaching Out!

We must acknowledge that which is out of place with God's Will if we want to please Him and live lives that glorify Him. However, we still need to be mindful of the manner in which we speak out and treat others who are living worldly rather than godly lives. There are people (even in the name of Christianity) who display downright hatred for some who live after the ways of this world. They even go out and attack, rather than try to reason to get them to understand the wisdom of God's Way. Truth is never to be set aside, but is to be spoken in love. ( Ephesians 4:15) That love should prompt genuine concern for the souls of others as we try to lead them to the Lord.

Reading in Paul's letter to Titus yesterday morning, I was struck by how he approached this subject regarding interaction with others. We read. . .

"(1) Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, (2) to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to BE GENTLE, and to SHOW PERFECT COURTESY TOWARD ALL PEOPLE. (3) For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another." ( Titus 3:1-3 ESV)

According to Strong's Lexicon, the word translated "COURTESY" means "mildness of disposition, gentleness of spirit, meekness." We can therefore see Paul's emphasis on GENTLENESS since he used words that mentioned that characteristic twice.

Do we remember the correcting and guidance we have needed? Do we have an appreciation for the manner in which we have been approached by others with the truth or perhaps wish we had been dealt with in a more loving manner? Paul encouraged Timothy toward the same way of approaching his opponents with the hope they would repent and be led to the truth. ( 2 Timothy 2:25) Let us remember that many sincerely believe that which is contrary to the truth. They need to have their understanding redirected and that is not always quickly done, so we must be patient. Hatred drives away while GENTLENESS and COURTESY can help tear down barriers and provide further opportunity to share the truth.

Keep this in mind as a new school year begins and you reach out to your classmates and friends. Consider it when you are engaged in class discussion on the diversity in society. Remaining calm as you COURTEOUSLY and GENTLY -- but with a steadfast resolve to hold to the truth -- direct toward an understanding based on the truth and Wisdom of the Author and Creator of life. His Way always brings the greatest blessing!

Have a great day PAVING THE WAY FOR LEADING OTHERS TO GOD'S WAY!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Gentleness