READ 2 Timothy 3
As Christians, we must be on our guard to follow the truth continually.

INSIGHT
The Scriptures are designed to be the basis of truth for leading a Christian to maturity in
Jesus Christ. They are accurate and trustworthy, afford adequate knowledge, and lead
to a godly, biblical lifestyle. They also yield a biblical ministry: “that the man of God may
be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (v. 17). Mature Christians are
those who know what they need to know (knowledge), are what they need to be
(lifestyle), do what they need to do (ministry), and are guided by the Scriptures in all of
this.

PRAYER
Praise the Lord for His magnificent Word that contains perfect instructions on how to live:
Deal generously with your servant  
So that I might live; then I will keep your word.
Open my eyes so that I may contemplate
Wondrous things from your instruction.
I am a resident alien on earth;  
Do not hide your commands from me.
I am continually overcome
With longing for your judgments.  
You rebuke the arrogant,
The ones under a curse,  
Who wander from your commands.
Your decrees are my delight
And my counselors (Psalm 119:17-21, 24).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving.
Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Restore the joy of your salvation to me,
And sustain me by giving me a willing spirit.  
Then I will teach the rebellious your ways,
And sinners will return to you (Psalm 51:12-13).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind, and pray this
affirmation to the Lord:
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.  
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God
(Matthew 5:6-8).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Greater self-control
• Those who minister in our inner cities
• Your activities for the day.

Finally, offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
When all has been heard,
The conclusion of the matter is this:
Fear God and keep his commands,
Because this is for all humanity.    
For God will bring every act to judgment,  
Including every hidden thing,
Whether good or evil (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).