Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – June 8, 2020
Know what his Word says and means. Steer clear of foolish discussions that lead people into the sin of anger with each other. 2 Timothy 2:15-26, TLB
A mentor of mine once said, “Two people swapping ignorance is a waste of time”. Well said! Not only a waste of time, but run the risk of railing at one another in an angry exchange. To what end? So each one feels like he won the debate, when in reality truth was held hostage and ignorance dug a relational divide as pride fed a feeling of mental superiority. Instead, we are instructed to know the Word of God, which when absorbed in the heart and understood in the mind, brings its own humility of spirit and freedom in truth that defends itself. Ongoing learning replaces ignorance with insight. Patience replaces anger. Humble love feels no need to argue.
Paul, the seasoned mentor, is reminding Timothy of the need to never stop learning. If he ceases to learn he will be stuck with an understanding inferior to what’s needed to comprehend God’s will for his life. To know the Word is to know the Word—Jesus Christ. Intimacy with our Savior goes deeper the more we understand the words of our Savior. The progression of a disciple of Christ is: to know His Word is to love Him, and to love Him is to obey Him. Ignorance promotes disobedience, learning leads to loving obedience. Ignorance ignites anger, knowing brings peace.
“Oh, Timothy, don’t fail to do these things that God entrusted to you. Keep out of foolish arguments with those who boast of their “knowledge” and thus prove their lack of it. Some of these people have missed the most important thing in life—they don’t know God. May God’s mercy be upon you” (1 Timothy 6:20-21).
Has unintended ignorance caused a relational rift? Maybe you didn’t have all the data for a decision you made, and now you need to go back and ask forgiveness—you jumped to an inaccurate conclusion, without first gathering all the facts. Or has another’s ignorance falsely accused you of something that is not true? At the very least forgive him, and move on— perhaps you need to speak face to face and clarify the circumstances with gentleness and humility. Ignorance is not a reason to remain in an unhealthy situation when truth leads to freedom.
Most of all, learn of the Lord’s ways. Each day delight in learning God’s word found in His word, the Bible. Feed your faith with the truth of Scripture so you have the spiritual stamina and wisdom to resist exhausting trials and temptations—and to recognize and call out the enemy’s lies. Read and discuss the Word of God with other friends hungry to learn and humble to be changed by the Word. Learning is less academic and more application. When you are transformed by truth you become more like Jesus. Reject ignorance and receive understanding.
“My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding” (Proverbs 2:1-3).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, engraft your word in my heart so I am transformed by truth, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
What area of my life needs to grow and learn through the truth of Scripture?
Related Reading
John 8:32; Romans 8:2; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 2 Timothy 3:16
Enjoy Boyd’s newest and well loved 40 day devotional book: Wisdom For Living. Wise living is all about the Lord Jesus Christ. What is His best? What is His will?
Post/Tweet today
Learning is less academic and more application. When we are transformed by truth we become more like Jesus. #WisdomHunters #ignorance #truth #Jesus
Worship Resource
10 minutes – Elevation Worship/Tauren Wells:
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
