God's Word

16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NASB)
 
Sometimes God's Word is a source of comfort and strength.  Other times it delivers powerful conviction. 
 
Certainly this passage suggests that an encounter with God's Word is intended to bring about change in our lives.  Whether it is for education or training in righteousness, or correction; God's intention is clear.  He means to bring about change in our lives, "so that the [men and women] of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."  For all of us that requires some sort of change. 
 
Once again, I am reminded of the Old Testament image of the implements used in worship in the Tabernacle.  These implements were sanctified, that is, set apart, cleansed, for holy use. 
 
Under the New Covenant, those implements are us.  It is God's intention, as today's passage suggests, that we be sanctified, set apart for God's holy use.  For all of us this requires God's redeeming grace.  For all of us this requires the gift of the blood of God's only Son.  Only by accepting this gift can we make a difference for God, equipped for every good work.
 
The result is change.  But change can be really, really hard.  Left to our own devices, we will return to our old ways, the habits and lifestyles that place us on the throne that belongs to God.  This is why it is really, really important that we encounter and engage God through the study of His Word daily. We need to take the time to wrestle with it, ask the tough questions, and seek His answers.
 
From start to finish it took me seven long years to get my college degree.  When it comes to the Word of God, I am so aware that I must be a lifetime student.