Inspired!

inspired!

2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV

[16] All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 

[17] that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

The whole of God's word is presented to us as inspired by God. I do not pick and choose the parts that excite me, and then reject the rest. I do not get familiar with the parts that sound good and then turn my back on the parts that prick my conscience. The parts that speak of God's love remind me of His mercies, but also remind me that God is also a God of judgment who will punish unconfessed sin, no matter in whom it is found. Men look at the principles of the old covenant, and may say that God has moved on, but they ignore the fact that  even the law of Moses did not come before the covenant of blessing God made with Abraham, the father of faith. The law was the schoolmaster to keep us in check and bring us to Christ, so that we might be justified by faith, and lay claim to the blessings of Abraham. All of God's revealed word shows His mind, and we will do well to take heed to what we read and hear. 

Check out the value of God's word and the dimensions it comes. The same word by God can do different things in the lives of those who seek it. In some instances, it is teaching the truth that is the need at the time, and at other times, it is for reproof and correction. There are times when there is a need to correct me or set me on the right path. There are also other times when I need to get fresh instruction for specific issues or situations that I am going through. No matter the need, or the complexity of the situation, there is a provision of the Word of God to meet that specific predicament. God does not leave us without guide or help; He knows our frame, that we are weak and helpless without Him, and He will do all He can to make sure we end up with Him in eternity. He does not waste resources, so He would not make all of these benefits available and then keep them away from me. They are of no use to Him alone, but when I partner with Him, the Word becomes a living tool in His hands to change the direction and destination of my life. 

It is not a wonder, then, that the verses above go on to lay out the benefits of a surrendered life. The person who has been subject to and under the ministry of the word of God cannot remain ordinary. We usually say that perfection is not possible, but you have the word of the God who demands that we be perfect, even as our Father in heaven is perfect. He will suppy the grace I need to live the way He pleases. Perfection comes from total submission and surrender to the will of God. You listen to Him; you read about Him, and you are ready and willing to obey Him. What I need for all that is ahead is IN Him, and not of me. All that I do must be done on the basis of this connection with God. Where else would you get good from, if not from the One who is the good God? God will not do part; if He starts it, be sure He will finish the work. Would you let His Word work in you? God's time of favour is here.