"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV
We turn to the Bible for answers to life's questions. However, to accept the answers as valid, we first must acknowledge the source of the Bible as God-given, the sacred God-breathed, inspired, Word revealed to different authors in different times and places. It survived orally for years, sometimes hundreds of years, until it was recorded in writing. Does this change its message and validity? Not at all; it only proves that God's Word is lasting. While many oral stories fade into oblivion, the Word has remained.
God gave us His Word as a driving guide for life, "for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." In its pages, we learn how to live righteously. In the example of Jesus Christ, we see how this is possible. But the Bible also teaches us what not to do and the consequences of choosing wrongly.
Before we read the scripture, we ask for God to illuminate their meaning to us. Then, in reading prayerfully, the Holy Spirit opens our minds, hearts, and souls to the interpretation and application of the Word, so we are "equipped for every good work."
God, we give thanks for your breathed Word, your driving guide for a righteous life. Please help us as we read your Word to interrupt its meaning for us. Equip us so that we may do your "every good work." Let us be your messengers of hope to a broken world. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Comments