Completely Equipped

Today we look at 2 Timothy 3:17, which tells us the purpose of the teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness we receive through our study of and meditation on Scripture.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV

When I first read this verse, it was in an older translation that used “adequate” for the word translated “complete” in the ESV. Confession time: I found “adequate” a little discouraging. I thought “adequate” was lukewarm praise; if my work was adequate, it was barely good enough. But the more I’ve studied and prayed about this, the more I think being adequate is a powerful thing. Through the teaching, reproof, correction, and training of Scripture, I am made adequate for God’s purpose in my life. This means I can do anything He asks of me.

There’s more! Through Scripture, I am made complete, and I am equipped. Your translation may read “completely (or thoroughly) equipped.” Through Scripture, I have everything I need to not just do the good works that God has for me, but to do them well. (Ephesians 2:10, Titus 3:14, Matthew 5:16, 1 Timothy 6:18, Hebrews 10:24)

This is the reason this ministry is called Perfectly Complete. I’ve known many women, including myself, who have struggled with feelings of inadequacy. Through digging into Scripture, we can all learn that we are adequate (i.e., “good enough”) to do things God asks us to do, because He makes us so. (Corinthians 3:5-6a)

Think About:

Have you ever struggled with feeling inadequate? How does 2 Timothy 3:17 encourage you today?