Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15
Several years ago, our church challenged us to read the New Testament through in a year. Sounds simple, right? Only 27 books. How hard could that be? So, I took the paper that plotted out the months and decided to do it. At first, easy-peasy. But then, reading became like struggling in mile 22 in a marathon – weary and worn. Not because I didn’t want to read, but life was throwing so much at me at once, I couldn’t juggle all of it. What did I do? – I quit. Oh, I thought I would catch up, but you know how that works, don’t you! After a few weeks when my schedule slowed, I picked the checklist back up and was overwhelmed with the number of chapters I missed. Now what? Skim, scan and carry on? I knew that was not the way to present myself to God. That’s not a worker rightly handling the word of truth. I needed a new plan.
And…my new plan was to read at my own pace. After all, did it have to be done in a year? No. Wouldn’t it be better to read, comprehend, and apply God’s word instead of skimming it and checking off the chapters? Yes. So, I began with my new plan. And, guess what? I did it! It took me a year and a half, but I read the New Testament. After Revelation 22? Genesis! That’s right. Began the Old Testament. Right now, I am in Daniel. Yes, it has been over a year, but I am working to present myself as one approved. Taking it slow, making it stick.
But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
Daniel 1:8
I love it when I am reading the Bible and God connects one thing with something else. Resolve. Daniel resolved not to eat the rich foods and stay true to his God. He was determined. He was devoted to his principles and committed to his actions. I think he was a worker rightly handling the word of God. I want to be like that, too. Resolved to read the Bible. Committed to know it and live it.
One footnote here – Don’t open your Bible and haphazardly read in different places each day. Have a plan that takes you through chapter and book. In addition to reading, I am involved in a Bible study with women at my church or on my own. Helps me be a better worker. Are you ready to be a better worker? Resolve to read the Bible through. One chapter at a time. You can do it – – I did!
Heavenly Father,
I thank you for giving us your Word – inspired by You and given to us that we may be able to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Help me as I read each day to learn, understand, and apply your words. Then let my words and actions reflect a worker that knows and loves you. Thank you, O Lord, for your lovingkindness and faithfulness that endures forever and ever. Amen.
