Fully Equipped

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete,equipped for every good work."  2 Timothy 3:16-17

"He leads me in paths of righteousness

    for his name's sake."  Psalm 23:3

From my Scripture/prayer journal this morning, studying 2 Timothy 3:

Observation:  Paul authors this letter of encouragement in  c.67 A.D. from prison in Rome to Timothy, a young church leader.   

Interpretation/Theme:  God breathes (exhales).  His Word to be revered as being issued from him and as having his authority.  His very breath - the Holy Spirit -  teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains me so I am provided with all supply of knowledge (wisdom, gifts) to do His good work (which He planned for me well in advance [Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God's masterpiece created in Christ Jesus to do good works that he planned for us in advance.")

- How will I study the Word?

- How will I work with God to all him to instill his Word in me?

- How will I use it to help others (do good works)?

Takeaway:  The Word of God has all the answers to life.  If I am fully equipped, I can address all areas of life (relationships, finances, suffering, grief, joy, peace, faith, hope, love, etc.).  But I need to be able to use it properly.  

What if an ambulance was not properly equipped, missing one or a few vital medications?  Medical devices?  Trauma dressings or IV solutions?  The crew would not be well-equiped to handle anything, from basic to advanced.  

Such is the Word.  I must be well-equipped to handle any and all life situations, and God has the answers through his breathing.

Relationships:  With God - He provides equipment (the Word, His Word) SO THAT

                           others can be served for His glory.

Change:  Commit to inductive study every day - TRAIN consistently, make changes that align with Him, build endurance, and teach others (disciple!) applying what God gives (breathing).

Prayer:  Father in Heaven, thank you for opening new meaning to me in your words this morning, drawing us closer together more than ever before.  Your Word is life.  I want to be one with you as Jesus and you are one, as he prayed in John 17.  Thank you for my life in Christ and for showing me more and more of it.