YOU ARE GOD’S PROJECT
“. . . Gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 2:25 NIV)
When you desire to become an instrument of God, studying the Word of God is a good starting point. However, it is a different matter to master the art of putting it into daily practice. You may sometimes find it is easier to muster up enthusiasm about the Word of God than simply live life in obedience to it. This is where the rubber meets the road! The apostle Paul reminds young Timothy that zeal and determination alone will not suffice in becoming an instrument for the Master’s use.
You must recognize that you are a work in process. In fact, you are God’s project; and you will need the strength that only God can supply. Strength to be morally upright and spiritually yielded to the Almighty. Permit your actions to be inspired by kindness, not discord. Embrace others with gentleness, share your wisdom with humility, and harbor no resentment. Turn away from wicked ways and pursue faith, love, peace, and righteousness. Call on the Lord out of a pure heart and permit Him to purge and prepare you for that godly life He is calling you to. God knows His own by name. He has promised to send forth His Holy Spirit that you may be cleansed and sanctified. So, you may receive a new heart and new spirit to do His bidding. (Ezekiel 36:25-27)
As a follower of Christ, you are not called to be a “do–it-yourself” project. Your life is God’s project. And you are to be a workman approved by God. There are several instructions that Paul gives to his spiritual son, such as: “Stir up”; Hold fast”; Be strong”; Endure hardness”; “Study”; “Shun”; “Flee.” But it is only as you attempt to achieve these noble characteristics in your own strength that you will realize two valuable lessons: (a) This journey is not a matter of reaching a destination but learning to lean on Jesus along the way. (b) Your life is God’s project; the legacy you leave will speak louder than words. (2 Timothy 2:21)