16 Every scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for showing mistakes, for correcting, and for training character, 17 so that the person who belongs to God can be equipped to do everything that is good.
Reflection
Have you ever embarked on a new career, or started a major endeavor or maybe you awaited your first child, and thought, “I’ve got this!” You studied long and hard and got your degree, you planned out every step of your major endeavor, even the contingencies, you took all the parenting classes, and now the moment to begin is here. But sometimes in spite of all our study and planning, we find ourselves woefully unprepared for the reality of our new situations. We thought we were thoroughly equipped to handle the journey, only to realize we need more guidance.
Timothy, the recipient of this letter, grew up with both his grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, who were Jewish converts to Christianity. His father was Greek, so he was familiar with the Greco-Roman culture of the Roman Empire. He was raised to learn Old Testament scripture and heard the gospel proclaimed by Paul. As a missionary, he traveled both with Paul and then later on his own and was mentored by Paul to be a leader to minister to the early Gentile churches founded by Paul. Paul made certain he was fully equipped in Scripture to be able to share the Good News of Jesus with others. Timothy was a faithful servant of God thoroughly equipped for every good work. Reading Scripture reveals God’s truth to us, God’s loving plan for the world. As servants of God, Scripture shapes us, heart and soul. Scripture is literally the “breath of God” in our lives. It is the living Word of God, that renews us and directs our lives. Scripture nourishes our spiritual growth, and thoroughly equips us to do good works as followers of Jesus.
by Jeneene Reduker
For Pondering & Prayer
When we read or hear scripture, we are brought into active relationship with God. The Holy Spirit speaks through scripture to us and transforms us. As servants of God it teaches us, humbles us and equips us to do God’s work. Scripture is not meant to be used as a weapon by us to hurt others. Rather, studying Scripture is a means of grace given to us by God to strength us and grow our faith, creating in us, “holiness of heart and life.”
There are many ways we can read and listen to Scripture, at church, in Bible studies or small groups or in our daily devotions. How can you make more opportunities for scripture in your day so you can be equipped by the Spirit to serve God?
Prayer: Loving God, transform our hearts and minds through the workings of your Spirit as we read your Living Word. Equip us through your Word to better serve you as we tell others about Jesus. Amen.
Comments are closed.