JUNE 7, 2013
Guarding
Hearts
Read: 2
Timothy 2:10-18
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not
need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. —2 Timothy 2:15
For
years I taught adult Bible-study classes in a local church and took great
pains
to consider scripture carefully before answering questions during the
lessons.
Later, during a lecture in my first semester of seminary at age 40,
I learned
that I’d given a woman who had attended one of my classes a
terrible answer to
her heartfelt question. I was certain my response had
been causing her distress
over the 2 years since I had seen her, and I was
eager to correct myself
for her sake.
Racing
home, I called her and instantly burst into an apology. A long pause
was
followed by her saying in a puzzled tone: “I’m sorry, but I’m having
trouble
placing you right now.” I was neither as memorable nor as damaging
as I had
believed! It was then I realized God is at work guarding His truth
even as we
grow in our understanding of His Word. I’m thankful He protected
this woman’s
heart.
We
are human and will make mistakes sometimes as we share God’s Word
with others.
But we have an obligation to diligently seek His truth and exercise
care when
we talk about it (2 Tim. 2:15). Then we may boldly proclaim Him,
praying that
His Spirit will guard not only our hearts but also the hearts of those
we seek
to serve. God and His Word are deserving of the greatest care.
The words I spoke but yesterday
Are changed as I read Your Word;
I see more clearly Your perfect way,
And my heart is deeply stirred. —Kilgore
Let God’s Word fill your memory, rule your heart, and guide your
words.
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
