2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Lack of holiness in your life is a good way to keep from being approved by the Lord. Paul tells you to be diligent to present yourself approved to God, which indicates it takes work. This is not to be a hit or miss situation, but a daily act on your part.
Temptations will come to get you to think or act like the world, but when you have the goal of always wanting to have the Lord’s approval, you will do your best to resist those thoughts. The next thing mentioned is that you are to rightly divide the Word of truth.
Many who do not read their Bibles, claim it is too hard to understand. This is only an excuse because the Holy Spirit is very willing to help them understand. Any time you don’t understand something, ask the Lord to direct you, because He wants you to use His promises effectively.
While you are here, be sure to check out the following read.
Our privilege in the service of God is not to be taken for granted -- this book brings enlightenment, education and inspiration to those who desire a true and firm commitment to the Lord.
Back to Eden is A Biblical Perspective on Wealth and Poverty by Dr. Simon Thiessen gives readers an insightful and thought-provoking book that offers a systematic Biblical approach to the issues of wealth and poverty. With several key concepts, the author speaks broadly of the evangelical movement that divides into two basic groups: one group stresses the personal relationship with Jesus Christ while ignoring their social responsibilities to the poor and the other that stresses both a personal relationship with the Lord that encourages, “a practical evidence of their faith as expressed in our responsible stewardship of our entire life.” (p.xi) Beginning from Creation to the Fall of man, the author takes readers on a discovery through the Bible from Old and New Testament text that reveals a fascinating understanding of Scripture when it comes to becoming prosperous, what it means to live life abundantly and God’s structure of wealth. As the author states, “Our purpose is to arrive at a perspective about wealth and poverty which is in accordance with scriptural teaching.” (p.xii)
Within this, and by combining academic research, Christian theology and the varying facets of human nature, the world, sin and righteousness, the author shed lights on what the Church’s social responsibilities to the poor are from a Biblical viewpoint, thus answering key questions that come to mind regarding wealth and possessions. Mentioning that God has given us spiritual and natural laws that govern the universe, the author helps readers also understand fundamentals that qualify Christians to partake of the goodness of God that involves a firm commitment to covenant that must be observed. The book also reveals the dangers of wealth, and what it means to truly prosper.
Such chapters as: The Creation – Fall Events, The Concept of Possession and Poverty Invaded by Creation and Fall Event, The Sinai – Covenant Event, Wealth and Poverty in the Old Testament, New Testament Wealth and Poverty, Living in Truth – Sanctification, Christ and the Rich, The Teachings of Paul and Soteriological Implications. These chapters further reveal Biblical truths in such a way that one will be forever enriched, offering a balanced scriptural mindset when it comes to wealth, poverty and the worship of the Lord.
This is a must-read for the entire Body of Christ to be made aware of truths that are within the Word of God. With the modern prevalence of the prosperity Gospel and for the person that has questions (in regards to wealth, materialism, money, possessions, and how they relate to eternity), this book comes highly recommended. Well-written and concise, the transparency of this book will no doubt bring deep conviction while reminding Christians of the importance of stewardship with their possessions, time and influence.
