Scripture: Inspired, Useful, Practical

Daily Reading: 2 Timothy 3

Scripture Focus: All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3.16-17)

Devotional Thought: Aren’t you thankful for the Bible?!  It is the Bible that we need to proclaim - not philosophy, not science, not pop-culture, and certainly not our own opinions! 

Why do we need to proclaim the Bible?  Paul gives three reasons in these two verses:

·       It is inspired.  The Bible is a unique book in history.  Though written over the course of 1500 years by more than 40 different authors, its message is consistent and enduring.  Why?  Because its ultimate source is God! 

·       It is useful. Paul’s purpose in sharing this with Timothy was pastoral in nature.  He wanted Timothy to be a stronger pastor by having more confidence in the Word he was preaching.  Paul wrote that the Scripture is to be used in so many ways.  It is to be taught for the wisdom and knowledge it contains.  It is to be a gauge by which our behavior and attitude can be measured.  It helps us identify those areas where we may be wandering from Truth.  It is to serve as a “trellis” upon which our lives can be grown, shaping us and supporting us for God’s pleasing purposes.

·       It is practical.  By practical, I mean able to be put into practice.  Paul’s immediate purpose was to train up Timothy as a strong pastor and leader.  He didn’t want Timothy to know the Bible simply for the sake of knowing the Bible.  Instead, he said that Timothy needed to know it so that he would be "equipped for every good work.”  The same thing can be said of all Christians.  Knowing the Bible is good, but it is not good enough. “Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1.22).

Thank God for his inspired, useful, and practical Word!

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your inspired, useful and practical Word!  I will hide your Word in my heart that I might not sin against you.  Amen!

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 119.137-144

137 Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules.

138 You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness.

139 My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words.

140 Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it.

141 I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts.

142 Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true.

143 Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight.

144 Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live.