Study Time!

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

For a few weeks I have written about a possible series on the Holy Spirit (see Pentecost and WorshipTime:  Pentecost); that series will prayerfully be starting at some point this summer.

Image from Pixabay

The task ahead is arduous; therefore, I will be taking the time to diligently study, read, reflect, write, and pray.  While I have a working outline to guide my studying and writing, I realize the outline will likely change as I learn and grow.

From https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Inspirational-Images/large/2-Timothy_2-15.jpg

As Paul admonishes his young protégé, Timothy, to study in order to rightly handle, divide the Word of God.  The word “study” in the above passage is to be diligent, to do the necessary work (study, meditation, and prayer) to be approved unto God.  I believe this series is important enough to take the time it deserves in study, prayer, and preparation.  Similar to writing a master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation, this series will not be written quickly.  God will hold me to a higher standard (see James 3:1).

Image from Pixabay

All of that said; I will post when I am able.  Please do not give up on me if I am silent for a few weeks at a time.

Image from Pixabay

Please join with me in prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for the multitudinous blessings You pour out on Your children.  Guide us to take the necessary time in Your Word to learn more about You, others, and ourselves.  Help those of us who preach, teach, and write about Your Word to diligently study Your Word in depth and divide it correctly.  Thank You for instilling in us a hunger for more of You, for more of Your Word, and for Your Holy Spirit Who empowers our Christian walk.  In Jesus’ Name, we pray.  Amen.

From My Heart to Yours,

Kim

The Impact of Teachers

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.  (John 14:26 KJV)

Personal Photo

As September nears its end, I would like to consider the impact teachers have on the lives of their students.  The impact can be positive or negative—coloring the whole of life.  A teacher’s impact or lack of impact can encourage a student to achieve great tings or fail to live to his or her fullest potential.

My brethren, be not many masters [teachers], knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.  (James 3:1 KJV)

It is an awesome responsibility to teach; something not to be taken lightly, especially when it comes to the Word of God.  In fact, as we read in the Scripture passage from James, those who teach will be held to a higher standard.  This should cause us to pause and deeply and soberly think about the responsibility in teaching the Word of God. 

Photo Credit: C. Meissner

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.  (John 14:26 KJV)

As Christians the greatest (and best) teacher we will ever have is the Holy Spirit.  Open your heart and mind to the Holy Spirit’s instruction and learn from Him.  The Holy Spirit is an amazing teacher, as long as we remain open and attentive to His gentle presence and soft voice. 

What have you learned recently from the Holy Spirit?

Personal Photo

For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off.  (Deuteronomy 30:11 KJV)

In planning, teachers develop learning objectives for their students.  Ideally, these learning objectives match the abilities of their students—challenging them enough but not too much.  The same could be said for those us who have the courage to teach Sunday school (any age level).  A plan is created for class with flexibility to address needs as they surface.

It seems to me that God, like a good teacher, challenges us to bring about our full potential.  Teachers hope their students will actually use and apply what they have learned in future classes and throughout life; God expects the same from us.

Be open to God’s teaching.  What is God trying to teach you?

Photo Credit: C. Whitlatch

What teacher had the greatest impact on your life?  I imagine you can recall at least one by name.

                

Please join with me in prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for the men and women who have the courage to teach.  We pray Your blessing and anointing upon those who have accepted the awesome responsibility teaching requires.  As we open our hearts and minds to the instruction of the Holy Spirit; help us to be good, attentive students of Your Word.  Guide us as we live our lives in the ways You have instructed us.  Thank You for Your perfect instruction that fits our abilities.  We are thankful that Your desires for us are not beyond our reach.  In Jesus’ Name, we pray.  Amen.

From My Heart to Yours,

Kim