2 Timothy 3:16, 17 “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”
The Apostle Paul is passing on some instructions to his protégé Timothy in his second recorded letter to him. Paul warns Timothy that in the last days there will be difficult times and there will be many who fall away from Christ and pursue wickedness. He warns of evil teachers and people who act religious but really reject Christ. In the midst of this warning, Paul encourages Timothy to stay true to his teaching and use God’s word as a guide. Scripture, it appears, is the guide that will help Timothy distance himself from false teachers and will help him stay on track.
All of scripture is inspired by God himself. They are his words. The Bible is not just an old book with some wise sayings that may be helpful sometime. The Bible is God’s story and his very thoughts and ideas recorded on paper for me to learn from. Paul may have written the letter of 2 Timothy to Timothy in the first century, but they are really God’s words for me today. Whether I am reading 2 Timothy or 2 Samuel, I need to be reminded the words I am reading are God’s words. And he tells me his words are there to help equip me and prepare me for every good work. Today, how am I using God’s words to motivate and inspire me to do his good work? Am I reading carefully? Am I reading closely? Am I putting his story and his words into action in my life?
Dear Jesus, thank you for speaking to me through your word. Help me rely on it and use it for every good work today. Amen.
