I suppose everyone has heard 2 Timothy 3: 2-4 referred to lately – the list of who to avoid in the Last days. If I hear it again today, I won’t be surprised… it’s a hot topic! But for me a don’t-list feels abstract and un-useful, I need a be-list. Tell me what to be like, as in who to emulate, and how to behave. Yes, Jesus is number one, but I want specifics.
So, I grabbed a Greek translation and a dictionary to clarify my own list of characteristics to aim for – these are the opposites of 2 Timothy 3:2-4.
BE:
unselfish instead of self loving
giving/generous instead of loving money
quiet instead of boastful
humble instead of proud
gentle/honoring instead of abusive to parents
obedient instead of disobedient
thankful instead of ungrateful
acting holy instead of unholy
loving instead of not loving
calm/rational instead of implacable
honest instead of slanderous
self controlled instead of without any
kind instead of savage/fierce
admiring of good instead despiser of good
To me the most shocking on this list is the last one, “despiser of good.” When did it become popular to hate good; despise virtue?? Bad is not good, wrong is not right, abuse of any kind- is not honoring to God. Behavior still matters! God help us all aim higher.
ForGlorySake! – Anna
