Contemplative Bible Reading

2 Timothy 2:23-26 (New Living Translation)

23 Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.

I don’t like verse 25. If I gently instruct a person with all my skill, charm, and general all-around brilliance, they will learn the truth.

Right? Wrong.

Perhaps, the verse says, God will change their hearts.

How did God get in the picture? This is between me and the lucky person who is learning at my feet.

Right? Wrong.

Why do I have to be wrong so often?

God, help me in my unbelief. Help me to truly understand the little, itty bitty role that I play in everything. Help me to understand how small I am, how great you are, and, therefore, how great is your grace.