14 But as for you, continue in the things you have learned and firmly believed, since you know from whom you have learned them. 15 From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Annie Davies

So far in this chapter, Paul has warned about people doing evil things in the last days. Despite the circumstances, now he encourages Timothy to continue to hold firm to Scripture and to the biblical truths he has learned since he was young. The reason? It makes you wise for salvation.

As I read this passage I am reminded of the importance of God’s word in the Bible. As we see people do wrong and seemingly live a full life, as we encounter new ideas or hard times of suffering, all we need is God’s word. God’s word is where He reveals His great plan of salvation for those who trust in Jesus. We can hold firmly to God’s word, knowing it is all we need. Those other things will pass away but our salvation through faith in Christ will remain.

Sometimes when I read the Bible, I can rush through, thinking, “I’ve read it before and I know it,” or I can skim over it and not be impacted by it. I can think it is old news – and slowly my life starts to look more like those around me who don’t know Christ. But this passage encourages me to continue to hold onto the precious teachings and promises God has made, and to be reminded that they are all I need. As Paul says in verse 17, God’s word makes us complete and is enough to equip us for the good work God has planned for us to do.

Timothy was taught the Scriptures “from infancy”. Having kids of my own, this passage also reminds me of the importance of teaching my kids from the Bible from when they are young, so that they might have the same certainty of salvation and comfort knowing the truth of God’s word throughout their lives. In the busyness of managing naps and meals and activities with young kids day to day, I am challenged to ensure teaching the Bible is a priority and a part of each day. After all, it is able to make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ, and that is the most important thing I want for my kids.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Annie is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.