Studying the Bible each day equips us for our God-given assignment in life. Paul writes: ‘All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realise what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right’ (v.16 NLTUK). Sometimes we can wonder why certain parts of the Bible have been included. We might even choose to skip over parts we don’t think apply to us. But according to Paul, all Scripture is useful. So what’s it useful for? 1) For teaching. It will structure our thinking. What we believe ultimately determines how we behave. If we’re not thinking correctly, we’re not living correctly. The Bible says: ‘Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think’ (Romans 12:2 NLTUK). Our thinking is transformed by reading and believing God’s truth found in the Bible. 2) For correction. The Bible tells us how we should live, and shows us where we’re falling short. It shows us what we should avoid doing and helps us become more godly. Psalm 119 says: ‘Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path’ (v.105 NLT). The Bible guides us and shows us the way we should walk. 3) For training in righteousness. The Bible equips us to fulfil our God-given purposes. James writes: ‘God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.’ By reading the Bible, we can become more like Jesus, and gain the wisdom we need to do what we’ve been called to do. 

What Now?

Read a part of the Bible that you normally choose to avoid. Ask God to teach you something through it. Then assess what you’ve learnt.