Approved!

Approved!

“[15] Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 AMPC

Paul was writing to his protege Timothy about the value of preparation before impact. That is the proper order of things. Timothy was a young man that Paul left in Ephesus to ensure that the truths of God’s Word were being upheld. If the young man did not know the truth, what would he be upholding? This is why the foundation of a life of impact is in the laying up of the right information, as we read a few days ago. It is also trans-generational; it does not matter how complex life is - as long as the earth remains in place, the word of God will always be that agent of transformation it needs. How do I harness the rich resources in the Word of God? How do I take advantage of the counsel and wisdom He offers?

At the start of the verse is the counsel to study, be eager, and do my utmost to present myself to God as one approved. The private preparation cannot be comtracted out. It is a personal encounter. It takes time, effort, focus and dedication to following through on the lessons learnt. One who studies in order to know more of God does not do it shabbily, or only when it is convenient. For students seeking a valuable degree, you cannot afford to read only when it suits you. There is a regular and consistent search for knowledge that must be integral to my study. God has promised to be found by all who seek for Him diligently. Am I willing to pay the price for that which God is ready to release? 

As we also know, God does not extensively use a vessel that He has not tested. He has to prepare me the right way for the place He is taking me to, so that I do not destroy myself. The one who has been tested becomes a workman who is now certified, trusted with the mysteries of the Word, and able to know and share God's mind on relevant issues. He has no need to be ashamed, because he is now backed up by the One who is Wisdom and Truth personified. He is able to correctly analyze, accurately divide, and skillfully teach the Word of Truth. The world needs this Truth; men who have encountered the Truth are the ones who can show and tell it to others. Do I truly know Him? God's time of favour is here.