“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15, NIV)

This verse, often quoted to encourage Christians to engage with Scripture, carries a depth of meaning that extends to every believer. But what does it mean to “study to show yourself approved”? Who was it written to, what was its original context, and how can we apply it today?

Let’s dive into the context, explore its relevance, and discover practical ways to live out this command, even for those who are not biblical scholars.

The apostle Paul wrote this verse in a letter to Timothy, a young pastor leading the church in Ephesus. Paul, nearing the end of his life and ministry, penned this second letter from prison as an encouragement and charge to Timothy. The church was facing false teachings, persecution, and moral decay. Does this sound like the church today? Timothy was tasked with shepherding believers and defending the truth of God’s Word in this challenging environment.

Paul’s admonition to Timothy to “do your best to present yourself to God as one approved” was a call to diligent study and faithfulness. Timothy, as a leader, needed to correctly handle the Word of God to teach, encourage, and protect the flock. This verse emphasized the importance of being prepared, knowledgeable, and intentional in his ministry.

Is this verse for us today? Absolutely! While Paul originally directed this letter to Timothy, the principles within it apply to every believer. All Christians are called to grow in their understanding of God’s Word and to live in a way that honors Him.

Peter echoes this in 1 Peter 3:15: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

To be prepared, we must know God’s Word and be able to “correctly handle the word of truth.” This is not a task reserved for pastors or theologians; it is a privilege and responsibility for every believer.

The Bible is more than a book—it is God’s Word, His direct communication to us. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul explains: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Studying Scripture helps us:

1. Know God More Deeply Through His Word, we learn about God’s character, His love for us, and His plans for our lives.
2. Grow Spiritually Just as food nourishes the body, the Word nourishes the soul. Jesus said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
3. Discern Truth from Falsehood In a world filled with conflicting messages, Scripture grounds us in truth. Psalm 119:105 declares: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
4. Live Victoriously God’s Word equips us to face life’s challenges with wisdom and strength. Psalm 119:11 says: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

For many, the idea of “studying” the Bible can feel intimidating. After all, we’re not all biblical scholars! But studying Scripture doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical steps:

1. Pray for a Hunger for God’s Word The prophet Jeremiah described his longing for God’s Word with vivid imagery: “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.” (Jeremiah 15:16) Ask God to give you a desire for His Word. Pray for understanding and a heart that delights in Scripture.
2. Start Small and Be Consistent Begin with short passages or a chapter a day. The goal is not to rush through but to understand and meditate on what you read.
3. Use Study Tools A good study Bible with notes and explanations can be incredibly helpful. Bible apps like YouVersion offer reading plans and devotionals. Commentaries and dictionaries provide deeper insights.
4. Ask Questions as You Read What does this passage say about God? What does it say about humanity? How does this apply to my life?
5. Join a Bible Study Group Studying with others provides accountability and the opportunity to learn from different perspectives.
6. Memorize Scripture Hide God’s Word in your heart. Start with key verses like John 3:16, Philippians 4:13, or Romans 8:28.
7. Meditate on Scripture Reflect on a verse throughout your day. Let it guide your thoughts and actions.

New and older Christians struggle to read or study the Bible, whether due to time constraints, lack of understanding, or simply feeling overwhelmed. Here are some ways to encourage and support them:

1. Encourage Simplicity Reading even one verse a day can make a difference. Quality matters more than quantity.
2. Provide Accessible Resources Audio Bibles, large-print editions, or simplified translations like the NIV or NLT can help.
3. Share Your Journey Share what you’re learning from Scripture. Your excitement can inspire others to dig into God’s Word.

Studying Scripture isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about transformation. James 1:22 challenges us: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

As we study, the Holy Spirit works within us, shaping our hearts and minds to reflect Christ. The more time we spend in God’s Word, the clearer His voice becomes, guiding us in every decision.

Imagine standing before God one day, hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). A life spent studying, meditating on, and living out His Word is a life that pleases Him.

Psalm 1:2-3 describes the blessings of delighting in Scripture: “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”

God’s Word is a treasure, a source of wisdom, comfort, and strength. Let’s commit to studying it diligently, not as an obligation, but as a joyful pursuit of knowing and loving our Creator.

May we, like Jeremiah, find joy and delight in God’s Word, and may it transform us into workers who are unashamed, approved by God, and equipped to handle the truth with faithfulness.