In a world filled with uncertainties, we often find ourselves searching for solid ground. Benjamin Franklin famously said, “…in this world, nothing is certain except for death and taxes.” While this quote rings true, it doesn’t capture the full spectrum of life’s guarantees. We face countless certainties: disappointments, relationship struggles, and mistakes we’ll have to own up to. Among these certainties is the inevitability of confusion.

But how do we navigate through the fog of confusion? The answer lies in an often-overlooked certainty: the power and reliability of Scripture.

The Apostle Paul, writing to his protégé Timothy, addresses this very issue. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, he states: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Let’s break this down:

1. Scripture is “God-breathed” The Bible isn’t just another book; it’s divinely inspired. It’s true, trustworthy, and transformative. When we approach it not as critics or defenders, but as apprentices of Jesus, we open ourselves to its life-changing power.
2. Scripture is useful for “Teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” In a world of conflicting moral codes, Scripture provides clarity. It shows us God’s character, His love, and how we should live in response. As Hebrews 4:12 puts it, it “judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
3. Scripture equips us When we surrender to Jesus and allow His Word to guide us, we become thoroughly equipped for every good work. It’s not about wielding Scripture as a weapon or dismissing it as irrelevant. It’s about approaching it with a servant’s heart, open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

The theologian Karl Barth once said, “Take your Bible and take your newspaper, and read both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible.” In other words, we shouldn’t read the Bible through the lens of the world, but rather view the world through the lens of Scripture.

When we make Scripture a daily practice, allowing it to teach, correct, rebuke, and train us, we open ourselves to transformation. We become better equipped to navigate life’s confusions and bring more of heaven to our everyday lives.

Next Steps:

1. Commit to daily Scripture reading: Start small, even just 10-15 minutes a day. Consider reading through one of the New Testament letters.
2. Seek understanding: Use clear passages to help interpret challenging ones. Utilize resources like Bible study guides or commentaries to deepen your understanding.
3. Apply what you read: Ask God to help you live out what you’re learning. Discuss your insights with others in a small group or with a trusted friend.

By anchoring ourselves in God’s Word, we can find clarity amidst confusion and be thoroughly equipped for whatever life throws our way.