Equipped By The Word
Devotional Reading: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Today’s verses give us a wonderful description of God’s Word, telling us what it is and what it does. First, consider what it is: it is “breathed out by God.” When you open your Bible or hear it read, the words you encounter are breathed out by the Holy Spirit. These are no mere human words. These are supernaturally inspired words. The One who knows what is best for us has given them to us.
Second, consider what this Word does: it is “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,” and it makes us “complete, equipped for every good work.” Only God’s Word can accomplish this.
Everything else you read is written by man, inspired by man. Yet, when we open the Bible, we are coming to something that is altogether different. We’re coming to a book that is inspired, or “breathed out,” by God. So it’s no surprise that it’s “profitable.” It’s from God. We have the words of the One who created us. All glory be to God.
We don’t have to read and study the Bible; but we want to read and study the Bible, because we want to know what God has said for the good life, for the abundant life, for the life that we were created to live. God’s Word makes us “complete.” Don’t you want that? Don’t you want to completely experience God’s good design for your life? Don’t you want to experience life to the full? Then let the Word do this work in you and equip you “for every good work.”
Prayer and Confession
Equip us through your Word for good works, for lives that count for your glory and for others’ good. God, make us men and women who spend time in your Word, who reflect your Word, who speak your Word, who teach your Word, who share your Word with others, and who walk in obedience to your Word. And in all of this, make us people who experience intimacy and life with you according to your good design. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Further Reading: John 6:63, Proverbs 4:20-22
