June 28, 2016: SOAP #2399: Amos 1-3; Psalm 80; 2Timothy 4

Scripture: 2Timothy (NIV) 4:2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

Observation: Here are two keys for anyone involved in training others—great patience AND careful instruction. “Careful instruction” is the teacher’s responsibility. Impatient trainers discourage learning, especially if the trainee is having difficulty understanding the subject. The trainer needs to understand the subject AND the ones being trained. How much background is needed with the training? What do the trainees already know? Nothing helps a trainer have “great patience” as seeing those he is training growing in their understanding and application. This is the goal of “careful instruction.”

Application: I am glad I have the Holy Spirit to work in and through me as I teach others. I must depend on Him! He knows both the subject and the heart of the trainee. He can lead me to give “careful instruction.” He also knows me! He knows my weaknesses and where I lack patience. He can inspire me with new ways to teach and with new illustrations. He is the Teacher’s Aide without equal!

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, I need your help to carefully explain the scriptures. Help me to communicate in an easy to understand way. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!