2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
In reading my discipleship book this morning it asked a question about the verse above: How does Scripture equip us for every good work?
The NIV reads verse 17 as "so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." But it missed the "competent" part found in the ESV above. The word "competent" means "having suitable or sufficient skill, knowledge, experience, etc., for some purpose" (dictionary.com). When we study Scripture we gain the knowledge, skills, and understanding of what and how God wants us to fulfill His purpose and call for our lives. What is the good work scripture is talking about here? The work of God in and through us. We cannot assume that we will become closer to God, understand His calling for us, or even do His calling for us if we are not looking into His word on a regular, daily basis for instruction and encouragement.
We cannot be equipped or competent unless we go to the source of truth: God. And what better way to hear from God than through His Word which is right in front of our face.
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