2 Timothy 3:16-17 – What a Gift!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

I always use these verses when I’m teaching children about the beautiful gift we have in the Bible. It’s helpful for all believers to be reminded of the importance of God’s word. It’s not just a book that sits on the shelf. Don’t you love how the Bible points to itself to explain exactly what a treasure we have in our hands?

Context (2 Timothy 3): Paul’s warning to Timothy about the last days is critical to understanding how important the Bible is for our future. Paul knew that standing on the truth of Scripture was going to help Timothy and us stand strong when opposition comes. In the surrounding verses, Paul describes what those end times are going to look like. Arming ourselves with the word of God is not a new concept for Paul. He talked about the armor of God to the Ephesians, and the Bible was the sword of truth, a weapon.

We may think of the Bible as God’s word or message to us. According to these verses, it’s so much more than that. It’s instruction and accountability, too. When we read the Bible and reflect on the messages contained therein, we can examine our own lives to see what we are doing wrong.

Have you ever tried to play a game without instructions? You open up the box and have all these pieces but have no idea what to do with them. That’s how life must be for people who haven’t had the opportunity yet to read the Bible. They don’t know they are going down the wrong path or making unwise choices. With the Bible, we never have to second-guess right from wrong. Our instructions are all there.

The promise Paul delivers is beneficial and tangible. God uses the Bible to equip us for service. I can’t think of better preparation than what God provides for us. We don’t have to feel unprepared for our “good works” anymore. God will always supply what we need to do his will. You can probably look at your life and see how God has gifted you to serve and bring honor to him.

We are so fortunate to have the Bible. Every Scripture reference is a gift to help us, teach us, and equip us be better people and more devoted followers. Each time we read the Bible, we’re reminded of something that helps us, inspires us, and draws us closer to the Father. Each moment we spend in God’s word allows us to tap into the heart of God.

Let’s pray. Lord, you amaze me every day in all the little and big ways you provide for me. Forgive me for not always being as grateful as I feel in this moment. Thank you for this place you have led me to and for the season of life we are living in together. Draw me closer to you each day so that I will be equipped for service. In Jesus’ name. Amen