Contend for the Faith

 

 

Contend for the faith

Be passionate if you must

But do not get caught up

In the unnecessary fuss.

 

Contend earnestly

But do so in love,

Let it be a demonstration

Of the Spirit from above.

 

Be forceful if necessary

But without hostility,

Enlighten the brother

Don’t make an enemy.

 

Display a good attitude

Be not condescending,

Remember it is your faith

That you are defending.

 

Don’t you dare argue

Just for argument sake,

That is definitely nibbling

At the devil’s bait.

 

 

Stand your ground for sure

But stand on the Word,

Search it for yourself

Don’t go on what you heard.

 

If while you are contending

You find out you are wrong,

Be gracious in acceptance

Don’t be wrong and strong.

 

Maintain your integrity,

That you must not lose,

If invited to a brawl

Politely refuse.

 

Try not to be divisive

Though divided you may be,

Disagree agreeably

And do so lovingly.

 

Treat the other as a brother

Unless directed otherwise,

Misguided he might be

But not to be despised.

 

If the roles were changed

As sometime they will be,

You would want for him

To treat you similarly.

Contending for the faith

Is not about you or me,

 It is sharing the love of Jesus

And doing so faithfully.

 

Stewart Russell © February 2020