Study to live

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the Word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15

If you want to become one of the nearly 24,000 licensed taxi drivers in London, get ready to do a lot of studying. The only way to get behind the wheel is to master The Blue Book, the single manual for a course that takes between two and four years to complete. It may take only a few minutes for the driver of a traditional black cab to take you from one point to another – but knowing how to get there required years of purposeful study.

The apostle Paul reminded young Timothy of the importance of knowing God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:14-17) and of carefully and diligently carrying out his ministry of teaching others (2:15). The goal of such teaching is not just learning, but Christlike living. Paul wrote, "Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife" (vv. 22-23).

Today, and every day, let’s make time to study God’s Word with diligence and purpose. And let’s take time to pray that what we learn will result in God-honoring behavior that points others to Christ. It does little good to know the best route to follow if we never get on the road. – David C. McCasland

The standards of the Word of God,

When used to test and guide,

Will show us how we need to live –

His strength He will provide. – Sper

READ: 2 Timothy 2:14-26

The goal of Bible study is not just learning, but living.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Kings 22-23

• John 4:31-54