“Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.” – 2 Timothy 2:14 (NLT)
As Paul entreats Timothy in this impassioned correspondence; as followers of Christ it’s important for us to spend our energies focusing on His divine example and teachings, and not allow our petty differences, disagreements and biases to divert that focus. In the service of our Lord, we must never miss the Message for the words.
Hi, I’m Phil Malmstrom, a.k.a. Phather Phil. I’m self-employed, father of two wonderful young men, an ordained minister who delights in spreading Jesus’ Message of Hope and Love, a science-fiction junkie, an aspiring photographer and above all that one of God’s Children who rejoices in His Blessings each day. 
Great verse to ponder and hold onto. “In God’s presence” which of course is everywhere. Glad to see you post, Phil! miss you.
Thank you Jean! I’d not intended to step away from posting or commenting, but life has an odd way of interrupting our best laid plans sometimes. God’s been laying quite a bit on my heart as of late that’s itching to get out however… 🙂
Been missing your insights, Phil. Sadly, this verse still needs applied in churches today.
Thank you so much Pam! I’ve missed posting and visiting others’ sites as well. It’s been a complicated and hectic time for me the last couple months, and I’m afraid that it’s interrupted my writing more than I’d wanted. God has been “nudging” me a lot as of late though, so don’t give up on me! 🙂