Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy to encourage him to “fan the flame” of the faith he had as a gift from God so that he would not be fearful in proclaiming it (2 Timothy 1:6-7). In order to do that, Timothy needed to know and understand the Word of God so he could discern truth from error. He needed to be able to present the doctrine of salvation clearly with no addition or deletion, and he needed to make clear distinctions between the law and the Gospel.
Timothy had to stand firm against the false teachers that were prevalent already in his time. There is no doubt that you as a believer have similar battles. Though you may not preach or teach, you are called upon to know God’s Word so you can rightly handle its truth. That only comes through diligent study and prayer, and the wisdom that is provided through the Holy Spirit.
The Bible is a living Book. You cannot read it once and absorb all it has to offer. It takes time and dedication to delve into Scripture. The more you focus on how the Lord speaks to you through it and align your life with His truth, the closer you come to understanding the deep things of God.
Some laws are passed in Congress by members who have not even read what they contain. Pray that the Lord moves in their hearts with the conviction to discontinue such practices and that they would be open to receiving the truth of God’s Word. Fan the flame of your faith so you stand unafraid and unashamed – a worker who rightly handles truth as you talk with your neighbors and friends.
Today’s Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 2 Timothy 1:4-14
4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, 12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. 13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
