“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
2 Timothy 3:16
As we’re living in a society that encourages us to live out “our truth” we must decide what our standard is going to be. Are we going to do what makes us feel good and live out “our truth?” Are we going to live by what society deems acceptable? Or are we going to go by what God’s word says? I hope the latter.
The inherency of Scripture is scarcely talked of nowadays. Interpretations run rampant while Scripture is used to justify sin, ignoring Paul’s charge in Romans not to use our freedom as an excuse to sin or to justify that sin (Rom. 6:14-16). I love what Bible commentator Adam Clarke said, “False doctrine cannot prevail long where the sacred Scriptures are read and studied. Error prevails only where the book of God is withheld from the people. The religion that fears the Bible is not the religion of God.” Sometimes the truth can be painful; I know from firsthand experience. When studying God’s word, I often become convicted over sins that God brings to light; whether it be thoughts, words, or actions. I’m thankful for that conviction. But I am also encouraged that Jesus casts our sin as far as east is to west and into the depths of the sea (Psalm 103:12; Micah 7:19). If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
In a world where the selling of Satanic shoes is celebrated, we must be firm as to what our standard is; the Bible. We must renew our minds daily and take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (Romans 12:2; 2 Cor. 10:5). Is it easy? Not always, especially in a day where many have a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof (2 Timothy 3:5). I was recently asked that if i was stuck in a 4 x 4 box with nothing–no phone, watch, or absolutely anything–would I have enough Scripture hidden in my heart to get me through it? If I’m being honest, I lean toward no. From a young age I decided to make the Bible my standard and have worked at memorizing scripture, but I could do much better and am nowhere close to having it all figured out. Sanctification is a process! Can I get an amen?
Referring back to 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is God-breathed; not one part of Scripture is something that God has not spoken through the writers. God’s word is useful for doctrine, which is what we believe about God, ourselves, the world, sin, etc. God’s word is useful for conviction, to reveal sin. God’s word is useful to correct us, to reveal our sin, why it is wrong, and how to turn from it. God’s word is useful to lead us in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake, through His strength and power alone (Psalm 23:3). All Scripture is true, it is meant to be taken at face value, not left to human interpretation. God’s word is meant to be a lamp to our feet and light to our paths (Psalm 119:105). John 17:17 says, “Thy word is truth.” This truth never changes, but is the same today as it was when it was written. God’s standard does not change, as He does not! Do we take Him for what He says?
I am the farthest it could possibly be from perfect, but I truly desire that God’s word be my standard. I fail Him everyday, but I want His word to be my standard; He took the time to write it for me and the least I can do is dedicate my life to reading it, meditating upon it, and living it out. God, thank You for Your precious, holy, true, and never-changing word. May we hide it in our hearts and live it out by Your power alone.
KNOW(N) Ministries 