spiritual wisdom

Being Unashamed: Working with Excellence for God

Being Unashamed: Working with Excellence for God

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

2 Timothy 2:15

Have you ever watched a skilled craftsman at work? There’s something beautiful about seeing someone who knows their trade inside and out.

They handle their tools with confidence and precision, creating something extraordinary from raw materials.

Understanding God’s Approval

When it comes to studying God’s Word, you’re called to approach it with the same level of dedication and excellence.

This isn’t about impressing others or earning God’s love – it’s about handling His truth with the care it deserves.

What Does It Mean to Be Approved?

Think of it like this: When a product gets a seal of approval, it means it’s been tested and found trustworthy.

As you study God’s Word, and learn to apply the truths you discover, you’re developing into someone who can be trusted with His truth.

Handling Truth with Care

Key Elements of Good Bible Study:

  • Take time to understand the context
  • Look at the whole message, not just isolated verses
  • Apply what you learn to your daily life
  • Stay humble and teachable
  • Check your understanding against trusted resources

Moving from Knowledge to Living Truth

Knowledge alone isn’t the goal.

God’s Word should change how you live. When you understand a truth from Scripture, ask yourself:

  • How does this change my perspective?
  • What action should I take?
  • How can I share this with others?

Practical Steps Forward

Start with one book of the Bible. Rather than jumping around, spend time really getting to know that book.

  • What’s the main message?
  • Who wrote it?
  • Why was it written?

Let these questions guide your study.

Making It Personal

Set aside regular time for Bible study. Even 15 minutes a day, approached with purpose and prayer, can lead to significant growth in your understanding of God’s Word.

Prayer for Wisdom

“Lord, help me handle Your Word with care and reverence. Give me wisdom to understand and apply Your truth correctly. Make me someone who can share Your message with confidence and humility. Amen.”

Remember, this journey isn’t about perfection – it’s about progress. Each time you open God’s Word with a sincere heart to learn and grow, you’re taking steps toward being that approved worker who handles truth well.

What’s one step you can take today to improve how you study God’s Word?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
Life-Giving Power of Wise Teaching

Life-Giving Power of Wise Teaching

“The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.”

Proverbs 13:14

Life-Giving Waters

Have you ever been really thirsty – I mean, really thirsty?

Maybe after a long run or working in the summer heat? Remember how refreshing that first drink of cool water felt?

That’s the picture Solomon paints here about wisdom’s teaching. It’s not just good advice – it’s as essential as water to a thirsty soul.

Understanding the Fountain

Think of wisdom like a natural spring that never runs dry.

Unlike a pond that can become stagnant, this fountain continuously provides fresh, life-giving guidance for every situation you face.

The Two-Part Promise

  1. A Source of Life
  • Fresh perspectives
  • Growing understanding
  • Renewed hope
  • Clear direction
  1. Protection from Danger
  • Warning signs
  • Clear boundaries
  • Safe paths
  • Wise choices

Real-Life Application

How This Works in Your Daily Life

Think about some common situations:

  • Making financial decisions
  • Choosing friends
  • Handling conflict
  • Setting priorities

Wisdom’s teaching helps you navigate each of these with clarity and purpose.

Finding the Fountain

You might be wondering, “Where do I find this wisdom?” Here are some practical sources:

  • Reading God’s Word
  • Learning from experienced believers
  • Listening to sound teaching
  • Applying what you learn

Avoiding the Snares

The verse mentions “snares of death” – these are the pitfalls that can trap us in harmful patterns.

Wisdom helps us spot and avoid these traps before we fall into them.

Common Snares to Watch For:

  • Hasty decisions
  • Harmful relationships
  • Poor financial choices
  • Destructive habits

Making it Work for You

Practical Steps to Tap into Wisdom:

  1. Start your day with God’s Word
  2. Find a wise mentor
  3. Listen more than you speak
  4. Learn from others’ experiences

Today’s Prayer

Lord, thank you for providing wisdom that brings life. Help me recognize and avoid life’s snares through your teaching. Make me thirsty for your wisdom and help me apply it daily. Amen.

Your Next Step

Think about one decision you’re facing right now.

Instead of rushing to conclusions, take time today to seek wisdom’s guidance through:

  • Prayer
  • Scripture
  • Wise counsel
  • Careful reflection

A Refreshing Truth

Just like you wouldn’t try to go days without water, don’t try to navigate life without wisdom’s teaching. It’s your source of refreshment, guidance, and protection in a world full of challenges.

Remember, this fountain never runs dry. Every time you come to drink from wisdom’s teaching, you’ll find exactly what you need for that moment.

Isn’t it amazing how God’s wisdom stays fresh and relevant for every situation you face?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Wisdom
God’s Wisdom Displayed Through the Church

God’s Wisdom Displayed Through the Church

The church isn’t just a building or a group of people gathering each week; it’s part of God’s grand design to display His wisdom to the world, and beyond!

“His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.”

Ephesians 3:10

The Church as God’s Masterpiece

Paul, the author of Ephesians, paints a picture of the church as more than just a community of believers.

It’s a masterpiece, a living display of God’s multifaceted wisdom. The word “manifold” suggests something complex and varied, like a beautiful tapestry woven with many threads.

Each believer, each local church, plays a part in revealing the depth and richness of God’s wisdom.

Revealing God’s Wisdom

But what exactly does it mean for the church to reveal God’s wisdom? It means that through our unity, love, and faithfulness, we show the world—and even the spiritual realms—who God is.

When the church lives out its calling, it becomes a beacon of light, showing the way to God’s truth.

This wisdom isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about living in a way that reflects God’s character and purpose.

The Role of Every Believer

You might wonder, “How can I contribute to such a grand plan?”

The beauty of God’s design is that every believer has a role to play. Whether you’re teaching, serving, encouraging, or simply living out your faith in your daily life, you are part of this divine display.

Your actions, no matter how small they seem, contribute to the bigger picture of God’s wisdom being revealed through the church.

Impact Beyond Earthly Boundaries

Ephesians 3:10 also mentions that this wisdom is being made known “to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.” This means that what we do as a church has implications beyond what we can see.

Our faithfulness and unity are a testimony not only to the world but also to the spiritual forces that are watching.

It’s a reminder that our actions have eternal significance.

Living Out This Calling

So, how can we live out this calling to display God’s wisdom? Here are a few practical steps:

  1. Pursue Unity: Work towards unity in your local church. Be quick to forgive, eager to understand, and committed to love. Unity within the church is one of the clearest displays of God’s wisdom.
  2. Serve Faithfully: Whether in your church or your community, serve with a heart that reflects Christ. Your service, no matter how big or small, is part of God’s plan.
  3. Share the Gospel: God’s wisdom is also displayed when we share the good news of Jesus with others. Be bold in your faith, knowing that you are part of God’s mission.
  4. Live with Purpose: Remember that your life is part of a bigger story. Live intentionally, knowing that your actions contribute to God’s grand design.

Conclusion

Ephesians 3:10 reminds us that the church is central to God’s plan for the world.

Through us, His manifold wisdom is displayed, not just on earth, but in the heavenly realms as well.

As we live out our faith, pursue unity, and serve others, we participate in something far greater than ourselves.

Pray Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration