Among the strategies to win at Scrabble (R) are to know the two letter words, some “z” words, and “q” words. This requires time with a dictionary memorizing combinations of letters that apart from the game have little use in everyday conversation.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. II Timothy 3:15 (KJV)
That same strategy is required of the believer who would be a servant of God. The term translated “study” in the KJV is translated elsewhere as “diligence”, “labor” and “endeavoring”. There is a sense of urgency (speed), work, and tenacity (not giving up quickly) in this beautiful word.
The goal of spending time in the Word of God is to equip ourselves to serve God effectively. What skilled workman arrives at a job site without his tools? Good professional tools are expensive and precious. An electrician needs meters and wire-strippers, a plumber has his pipe wrenches, and a carpenter would be lost without his hammer. In the toolbox of the servant of God should be a working knowledge of the Scriptures. It takes time, energy, and perseverance to gain competence so that you can accurately handle God’s Word. The goal is not to gain God’s approval, but the show it. Let’s get to work!
