This Endless Journey to Handle God’s Word Correctly

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
— II Timothy 2:15 NIV

When I'm driving somewhere new, Apple Maps is a good friend to have along. This amazing technology provides directions and an estimated arrival time. I like the way Maps eliminates questions over the best route to take. I turn where the directions tell me to turn, and I'll know they were accurate when I arrive at my desired destination.

When life throws out a confusing issue, and I'm not sure what direction to take, where do I turn for guidance and how do I know I'm getting the right answer— is there an Apple Maps for life?

God's Word serves as a type of “Apple Maps.” I like to filter life through it, especially those things that bother me or cause me to get emotionally stuck. I like to pray Scriptures and "turn" where the Word tells me to turn.

But how do I know I'm applying the truth of His Word correctly?

There are ways to help confirm the accurate use of His Word: by the peace the Holy Spirit gives, by cross referencing Scripture, by checking reputable commentaries, proven dictionaries, respected Bible teachers, biblical counsellors, Christian mentors, etc. The resources are unlimited.

When a life issue is met with the truth of God's Word, peace replaces the irritableness and indecision. Sometimes finding those nuggets of wisdom is a long process of discovery. Other times, the Lord sheds light on a passage and there is immediate insight, like, "Oh, why didn't I see that before?!"

I'll never fully understand His Word, but the intrigue keeps me trying. There's always another stone to uncover. Always another cross-reference to consider and another layer to the story. The mysteries of God and His unfathomable nature keep me curious.

He is God. I am not.

I'll never have full understanding of God's Word in this life. I'll never come to the end of asking questions or the end of looking for answers. But, I will come to Him one day and therein will be the answer to all my questions.

I will have arrived at my desired destination.

Until then, I pray to be faithful to present myself "to God as one approved," (II Timothy 2:15 NIV) and to share the gleanings with others, like you.

Thanks for reading. 

Words of life, preserved for the ages,
speak to me. Grant light
that I might see
clear paths for searching feet.

Lord, help me to apply the Word correctly. To not twist it to mean what I want it to mean, but to listen to what You're saying through it. Give me eyes to see truth, ears to hear wisdom, and a heart to follow Your guidance. In Jesus' name, Amen.