"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." -2 Timothy 3:16-17
 
How do you become good at what you do? Is it easy to be a great boss, employee, husband, father, golfer or friend? Paul is instructing Timothy that in order to be good at serving God, He needed to be equipped.
 
I remember one time when I said the evil word "No" to my oldest daughter in regards to an event she wanted to attend with a friend. She was about 7 years old. She stormed off to her bedroom and looked back at me and said, "You don't love me." I followed her to her bedroom and talked with her about her reaction to my saying "No.". I remember saying to her that "If I didn't love her, I wouldn't care what she did." 
 
Sometimes I get mad at God and tell him He doesn't love me because He isn't allowing me to do what I want to do. He then allows me to see in His Word just how much he loves and cares for me. He says "No" to me because He knows it is not what is best for me.
 
In today's culture we are labeled as "judgmental or intolerant" if we use God's Word to do what Paul said to Timothy. Rebuke, Correct, Teach what God is saying is harsh or unloving. I believe that God breathed on and inspired the authors of scripture to write the truth about God and our relationship with Him. This happened so we could be equipped for the call and purpose God placed on our lives. Hearing the truth is difficult, but necessary for our growth and maturity.
 
Has God revealed His Word to bring correction or rebuke to your life? How are you reacting to this truth? Brothers, embrace the truth and ask the Holy Spirit to help you receive it and apply it so that you can be equipped for the good work God has for you. 
 
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for giving me a copy of your Word. I trust that it is written by men but authored and inspired by you. Help me to read it and embrace its truth so I can be equipped for your service. In Jesus' name, Amen!