2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (NIV). The King James translates the first part of that verse with these words, study to show thyself approved…. The past few weeks have reminded me of the truth of this passage and how important it is for believers to stay in the word.
In our world today we are faced with a culture that will corrupt the message of God’s word to suit their own lifestyle. If they are unable to find justification then the next step is to deny its authority or attack its credibility. On the other end of the spectrum we find believers who cannot defend even the simple tenets of their faith. When confronted by the first group, believers wilt in their ability to justify their own faith.
So what is the answer to this dilemma? Study!! Devotional reading of scripture is a wonderful discipline, but we also need to move deeper in our reading and understanding of God’s word. I understand some feel intimidated by this challenge, but the only way to overcome that fear is roll up your sleeves and get busy. When you get to passages that are difficult to understand don’t gloss over them, get a commentary and read it. Talk to other believers and ask them what they think it means. Go to your pastor and talk with him about the passage. The key is to come away with a better understanding of what the scripture means.
Don’t give up. God will honor your desire to know His word.