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“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV)

Ever find yourself perplexed by a post on Facebook, a tweet or perhaps the text glaring before you? It was a quick read that led to a deep contemplation or an emotional stirring the sender had no intention of making. Words are powerful forces and the written word stares us straight in the face setting us up to draw our own conclusions if we’re not careful. We might think we understand the meaning or message, but communication only works when we receive what was intended. Perception is overrated if it is bent in the wrong direction.

Wonder if we ever handle God’s word that way? We read a verse or two and draw our own conclusions. We flip the pages to what we want to read. We flee the tough stuff, the “need to change stuff” and lean towards easy “feel good.” Zeroing in on just a few verses can easily lead us to unintentionally take His words out of context. When we remove the surrounding passages or story, we set ourselves up to distort its true meaning. Drawing our own conclusions when it comes to the very words of God was never His intention.

Now don’t get wrong, there are times when God leads us and reminds us of His very words – one verse at a time. There are moments when the journey we are on is so tough, we just simply open our Bibles and beg for a word from God. And you know, what He delivers! In those soul starved moments when we are clinging to promises and searching for truths, God soothes us with His very words. He will draw us in giving us a firm Rock to stand upon. And in those moments, we can choose to nibble or stay at the Father’s table and be filled, satisfied with truth.

Linger longer with Jesus today – circle that passage – read deep and watch as God unveils His truths one verse at a time.

“Father, help us to dig deep rather than skim the surface of Your word. And when we read things we can’t understand, shine Your light in our souls so we don’t confuse your truths.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life