KEY  SCRIPTURE:2Ti 2:24 KJV “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,”

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The Strong’s Greek dictionary gives three meanings to the word strive.

1 The first meaning explains that it is to fight. This is when two people exchange blows or engage in armed combatants

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2 The second is about those who engage in a war of words, quarrel, or dispute

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3 The third are those who contend in a law court over property and privileges

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From these three, the most suitable meaning in the light of our discussion is the second one. Our key scripture says the servant of God must not strive over words. This kind of word tango normally depends on the two persons involved. On a number of such occasions, one party quickly interrupts the presentation of the other. This is what keeps tempers high. The best way to tone down  the tension between the parties is for you, the servant of God, to allow the other party to say all that he has to say at a time and then calmly state your case. Do not aim at winning the argument, but as you speak, pray in your heart that the Spirit would direct your words and convict the heart of your enquirer.

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Please, if your knowledge about the topic of discussion is scanty ,please tell your enquirer you are not well informed about that particular topic, but rather you would come back at another time to speak clearly on that topic. If you are well informed about the topic of discussion, then just be patient and cautiously present your views. Do not mock your enquirer or make statements like ,”see how ignorant you are” Such comments would only generate wrong passions and strife.

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After your presentation, ask him or her if he is convinced about your answers. If he says yes, then explain the steps to salvation to him.If he says no, then enquire about the aspect that he is not very clear about, and if he is ready for further explanations, then just go through with Him again. If he seems to be still resistant, then  end the discussion. Keep interceding for him. The Lord is able to save him.

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THOUGHT:STRIVING IS A WORK OF THE FLESH, AND CAN NOT YIELD ANY GOOD RESULTS.

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FURTHER STUDIES

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2Ti 2:14 KJV “Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.”

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2Ti 2:24 KJV” And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,”

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