For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

• Good judgment
• Self-control
• Properly prioritized

Bible study isn't intended to simply be way for us to rack up a store of factual knowledge. We need to apply the things we learn, growing more Christ-like day by day. How do we do that?

2 Timothy 3:16 tells four us different ways Scripture applies.
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable (useful) for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

Doctrine - Don't get too hung up on the word doctrine. It simply means 'teaching'. For example, Scripture teaches us Jesus Christ is God's Son. The most basic way to apply Scripture is to recognize it as absolute truth, the final authority on a subject. Accept it. Embrace it. Conform to it.

Reproof - Scripture also points out where we've gotten off track. If I thought I should take revenge on anybody who crossed me, a quick Bible study would reprove me. The Bible tells me revenge is God's prerogative, and I'm to respond to mistreatment with grace and forgiveness, turning the other cheek even.

Correction - This is the how-to for getting us back on track. Often these are the toughest ones to apply because they involve the most work and the greatest change. For instance, Paul says in Romans 12:2 not to be conformed to the world but transformed by the renewing of our minds. Applying that verse is a life-long pursuit, with constant evaluation and adjustment.

Instruction in righteousness – Finally, Scripture tells the positive things we should do. Applying Scripture this way can be as simple as obeying the direct commands God gives. Other times, its more subtle. An example for this one is 2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind." How does it change your approach to the challenges in your life knowing that God has given you that spirit? Those changes are a result of applying the truth in that verse. 

As you read and study, be aware of verses that stand out to you. Do you need to apply that verse or passage? Is it a truth you need to hold on to (doctrine or instruction)? Does it reveal an area that needs work (reproof or correction)? 

What stories can you share about applying Scripture to your life?

Lately, I've been cleaning out my office. It's amazing (and disappointing) how much stuff accumulates in such a short time. Once I'm through carrying out bags of junk, and vacuuming and dusting, I'll have neater, more functional space. All the stuff I need will be close by making it easier and faster to accomplish what I need to each day.

It's not just my living spaces that need periodic cleaning- my hearts does, too. I know I've picked up a lot of junk- a box of frustration there, a folder or two of fear stacked on the bookcase, a bad attitude cluttering up my workspace. Sometimes things like joy and peace are hard to find underneath all that other mess, (I know they're in here somewhere… I remember bringing 'em in and putting them right over there by that big pile of doubt…)

For a packrat like me, determining what needs to go is often a challenge, but in the right mood, I can toss out with the best of them. However, when it comes to de-junking my heart, I need outside help.

I have to rely on God and His word to identify the junk in the first place. (Search me, O God… and see if there be any wicked way in me. Ps. 139:23)

I have to make the effort to let go of the stuff. (Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us… Heb. 12:2)

Finally, I need Him to vacuum and clean out the place, so He has room to work. (Create in me a clean heart, O God… Ps 51:10)

Therefore if anyone cleanses himself… he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master 2 Timothy 2:21

[This is a repost. Thanks for understanding]

Thus says the Lord:
“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom,
Let not the mighty man glory in his might,
Nor let the rich man glory in his riches;
But let him who glories glory in this,
That he understands and knows Me,
That I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth.
For in these I delight,” says the Lord.
(Jeremiah 9:23-24)

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. (2 Timothy 2:20-1)

Who doesn't like to be recognized for hard work, and a job well done? The trick is not allowing that to degenerate into prideful egotism. So how do we let go of that desire for encouragement, affirmation and attention (and I admit, mine is pretty strong) in favor of humble submission to God?

1. Revere God. The verses in Jeremiah outline what we should get excited about- our great God who demonstrates His lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness in the earth. I know the Lord, and He reveals Himself to me, wants to be known.

2. Examine my motives. Why am I doing this? Is it to show off my wisdom, or talent? Is it to get rich?

3. Cleanse myself. Technically, I can't cleanse myself, but I can be diligent about asking for forgiveness and cleansing from God. His Word is key to becoming conformed to the image of Christ.