Equipped By The Word Of God For Every Good Work

-October 27, 2022-

Good morning, happy Thursday,

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

(2 Timothy 3:16-17).

One of the greatest tools is also one of the smallest: the Swiss Army Knife. This little wonder offers many tools in one pocket knife. Whatever the one carrying it encounters, he or she is equipped to handle it quickly and easily. The term “Swiss Army Knife” was coined by American soldiers after World War II after they had trouble pronouncing the German word “Offiziersmesser,” meaning “officer’s knife.” It has acquired the usage as a figure of speech indicating applicable to more or less any scenario at hand.

The Bible, like the Swiss Army Knife, is useful for the Christian, for it prepares us for any situation that might arise. It is personal, practical, and profitable. God gave us His inspired Word to help us make it through this life. It is profitable for “doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness.” There are promises to claim, commands to obey, and precepts to apply to our lives. The Scriptures, like Swiss Army knives, are only useful when taken out and utilized. Just carrying it is not enough.

Paul wanted Timothy, his faithful son in the faith to always be prepared for any situation, any person, friend or foe. We have to know our tool and how to use it. When we do, we are ready, prepared, and equipped for every good work. How well are you equipped by the Word of God? Paul wrote to Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Let us then “sharpen our skills” in using the Scriptures, from both the New and Old Testaments. When Jesus was in the temple, He was given the chance to speak. He quoted from Isaiah. Paul was afforded a similar opportunity to speak when the rulers of the synagogue asked him, “Men and brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on” (Acts 13:15). He seized the opportunity to preach the gospel.

Have a blessed day staying ready by being prepared and equipped for every good work. Stay safe and healthy.

Equipped and ready to be used,

Dean