Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus. They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith. But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the Lord must turn away from evil.” In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 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.
2 Timothy 2:15-26 NLT
God’s love gives us strength to serve Him well. Paul mentions four specific ways to work well for God: work hard, stay out of foolish debates, correct false teaching with gentleness, and stay pure. All of these are critical to godly leadership, but all of them take discipline.
Discipline is essential for Christians in every aspect of life. It teaches us to respond with gentleness when frustration strikes, to flee from tempting situations, and to resist the pull of gossip. While culture often encourages us to chase after our desires, many of those desires lead us astray. As followers of Christ, we must train ourselves to live according to His example of love and obedience. Through this intentional discipline, we gradually become more like Jesus, and our desires transform to align with His will.
Building godly character is not quick or easy—it’s a slow, intentional process shaped by faith, choices, and reliance on God’s grace. This is what God desires for us, and it’s the heart of being fully saved from sin: a life committed to growing closer to Him and embodying His ways.
Where do you need God’s discipline (with His help) in your life? Which of these four things are you doing well, and which ones need growth?
