I Will Be Devoted to the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:10-17)

I Will Be Devoted to the Word of God
2 Timothy 3:10-17
 
It is very interesting that when the Bible talks about the “last days” we find that it is a description of the day and time in which we live in. But during terrible times as Paul described, how are we going to live and what are we going to do? Those who lives for God is going to face persecutions, trials and troubles (v.12). It is going to come, it is just the way it is if you know God and love God. But who are you going to trust and who are you going to follow and how are you going to live your life? Paul was burdened for Timothy. He writes about ministry and leadership and principles that he has learned and hopes Timothy would have learned as he watched him live his life. Paul was telling him to be careful who to follow and give allegiance to and to follow those who are living godly lives and encourages him to live in such a way (v.10).
 
During terrible and challenging times in life, we are exhorted by the Apostle Paul to keep our eyes on God, to make sure we are careful as to who we are going to follow and to live godly lives.
 
  1. An open book. (v.10-11)
    • We are to live life where there is nothing hidden or surprises in them. We are to be a people who are not living in public one way and another way in private. We are open for everybody to see our life.
    • Timothy served with Paul and he knew how Paul lived. He lived with faith, patience, love, endurance and steadfastness for the Word of God.
 
  1. Life of faith.
    • Paul was a man of faith who always loved God. Always trusting and believing that nothing is impossible with God.
 
  1. Live life for the glory of God.
    • In everything you do, do for the glory of God.
    • 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
    • Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
 
  1. Be devoted to the Word of God. (v. 15)
    • Make sure you are committed to God’s Word.
    • Acts 2:42 “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
    • 2 Thessalonians 2:15 “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you…”
    • 1 Timothy 4:13 “…devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.”
    • Ezra 7:10 “For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws of Israel.”
    • Continuing in God’s Word is what will keep you during times of trials, when things are not ideal, and you wish things are better and things would change.
 
  1. Be directed by the Word of God. (v. 16)
    • The Word of God is given to teach us (right and wrong), to convict us (the Bible will show things in your life that really needs help and change), to correct us and to train us.
    • Psalm 119:97- 112. The Word of God gives us a clear mind so there is no confusion of what we are to do. It will give you wisdom, insight, understanding and adjust your priorities and keep you away from evil path and preserve your life.
 
  1. Be a person of prayer.
    • Not just in asking but being silent before God to listen to what He is saying.
    • Pray the Word of God.
 
When it comes to our devotion, we need to be devoted to the Word of God. It is the only thing that will make us mature. People who know God’s Word, who are committed to His Word, walk day by day in faith and trust and confidence in God become mature. When we live life devoted to God’s Word, we are given an ability to handle sufferings and trials and any situations we face in life (v.17).