"Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, brightly dividing the word of truth.
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness."
2 Timothy 2:14-16
This is a good reminder for us to study instead of strive. One of the definitions of strive (the one used here) is to contend, or work in opposition. It says later in this same chapter "the servant of the Lord must not strive" (verse 24). Getting into arguments with others about words, like the interpretation of a verse of scripture, a prophecy, or a policy of the church, isn't going to profit anyone, and it could harm the people watching us set an example of argument. :) Instead, we are asked to study. This not only helps us learn, but it shows what we really care about... being approved of God. As his workmen, we have no need to be ashamed, and as we study we will be able to clearly tell how all truth should be applied in God's kingdom. The whole "dividing the word of truth" part is interesting. To me it seems a little like mining... as we study, we start out with a pickaxe and separate some of the truth from the wall so that we can see it more clearly, and know it more intimately. As we continue to study a topic, we might take that piece and polish it up or maybe even cut it like a jeweler, so that we can see how it shines. It's separate so that we can see it clearly, but it is still part of a whole, the same truth that runs under our feet and throughout the earth, and learning about a piece of it helps us to understand more of the whole... all of God's purposes in his work and creation.
Today, let's recognize that "profane and vain babblings" are only going to increase in the world, as Satan tries to fight against the truth. Let's not engage in profitless argument that doesn't help anyone. Instead, let's study and learn, learning how all of our bright pieces fit together into God's whole, and stay strong in the sure foundation of truth that God provides.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, brightly dividing the word of truth.
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness."
2 Timothy 2:14-16
This is a good reminder for us to study instead of strive. One of the definitions of strive (the one used here) is to contend, or work in opposition. It says later in this same chapter "the servant of the Lord must not strive" (verse 24). Getting into arguments with others about words, like the interpretation of a verse of scripture, a prophecy, or a policy of the church, isn't going to profit anyone, and it could harm the people watching us set an example of argument. :) Instead, we are asked to study. This not only helps us learn, but it shows what we really care about... being approved of God. As his workmen, we have no need to be ashamed, and as we study we will be able to clearly tell how all truth should be applied in God's kingdom. The whole "dividing the word of truth" part is interesting. To me it seems a little like mining... as we study, we start out with a pickaxe and separate some of the truth from the wall so that we can see it more clearly, and know it more intimately. As we continue to study a topic, we might take that piece and polish it up or maybe even cut it like a jeweler, so that we can see how it shines. It's separate so that we can see it clearly, but it is still part of a whole, the same truth that runs under our feet and throughout the earth, and learning about a piece of it helps us to understand more of the whole... all of God's purposes in his work and creation.
Today, let's recognize that "profane and vain babblings" are only going to increase in the world, as Satan tries to fight against the truth. Let's not engage in profitless argument that doesn't help anyone. Instead, let's study and learn, learning how all of our bright pieces fit together into God's whole, and stay strong in the sure foundation of truth that God provides.
I am studying on how to begin replacing the lies I have floating around in my head and heart with God's truth. I stumbled into your blog and am so thankful!
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked it. :)
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