praying effectively: Flee from Youthful Lusts (2Tim. 2:20-26)

(2 Timothy 2:20-26)  Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. 24 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that we seek out other sincere believers with pure hearts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and  peace together (2:22)

- that we cleanse ourselves from dishonorable things so that we might be useful to God (2:20-21)

- that we flee from lusts (2:22)

- that we refuse foolish and ignorant speculations (2:23)

- that we avoid quarrels (2:23-24)

- that we are able to teach (2:24)

- that we are gentle when we correct anyone from wrong thinking or sinful living (2:25)

- that we are patient when wronged (2:24)

- that we are kind to all people (2:24)

- that we pursue righteousness (2:22)

- that we pursue faith (2:22)

- that we pursue love (2:22)

- that we pursue peace (2:22)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being willing to use us, and for shaping us into useful vessels when we are willing.  May we always be willing to be led and changed by You. 

Guide us in finding other sincere and steadfast believers who will help keeps us accountable, and who will support and encourage us.  May we all work together in peace and love.

Help us to be kind and loving to all people.  Give us wisdom and patience when we encounter contentious people.  And keep us faithful and steadfast in Your righteousness and to Your will in all things.  All to Your glory, amen.