From Bishop Jemmott’s Shepherd to Shepherd article entitled: “The Lord’s Servant Must Excel!”

To excel is to be exceptionally good at or proficient in an activity or subject. Baseball legend Willie Mays said the following about excelling: “In order to excel, you must be completely dedicated to your chosen sport. You must also be prepared to work hard and be willing to accept constructive criticism. Without one-hundred percent dedication, you won’t be able to do this.” Not only must athletes excel, but believers need to excel in certain lifestyle behaviors.

The second Epistle to Timothy was written during the Apostle Paul’s second arrest and imprisonment. This was Paul’s second incarceration, which eventually resulted in his execution. Therefore this Epistle is Paul’s final message to his spiritual son Timothy. Paul instructs him on how he should conduct himself as a believer. “A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.” 2 Timothy 2:24 (NLT) Paul listed three things that Timothy needed to excel in rather than to quarrel with people.

First, be kind; not just to the saints or his friends, but to everyone. Second, he tells Timothy to teach at every opportunity, and finally he is to be patient with difficult people. Lord, you know I need help being patient with difficult people!

Remember, the Lord’s servants are to excel in being kind to everybody, teachers of the Gospel and patient with difficult people.

Be Blessed,

Bishop Jemmott

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