The Man of God

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." (2 Timothy 3 :16-17)

1. Who are the Children of God?

I remember once when the children were young, we went shopping in a big mall. One of them got lost and we became very worried. Soon after, we heard an announcement through the PA system calling for me. I was relieved after knowing that the missing child was found. I am sure some parents may have similar experiences. The missing child could be located because he knows his father's name.

Today, we are children of God through Jesus Christ our Lord. We know our heavenly Father and we know our sins are washed away. The Apostle John said very clearly " Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not " (1 John 3:1). How wonderful it is to be loved by God! Indeed, our value lies in the manner God loves us, making us His children. Therefore, we must live as worthy children by being Christ-like.

2. The Way of a Man of God

Paul wrote to Timothy, telling him the things to take note of, as Timothy looked after his church members, and to teach them the Word of God. A true believer has the Word of God in him, and thus is able to differentiate between good and evil, truth and error. This should be the guide in our everyday living. " All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works " (2 Tim 3:16 -17). Indeed, we ought to strive to be more like Jesus till the day we meet our Lord. With this objective in mind, our daily living can be one of love, faith, meekness, long suffering and fear for God.

3. Drawing Strength from God

The man of God draws strength from the Word of God. We can grow spiritually by feeding on His Word so that we know right from wrong. Also, we are able to provide when fellow brethren are in need, caring for those in sadness, understanding those who are weak, comforting and praying for each other. Of course, we are not perfect but we have one God, who wants us to be united as one, propagating the Gospel and the ministries in the church. Therefore, we are all family members in the church and should be united to build on each other's strength. This way, we will be able to withstand the attacks from Satan who is ever so eager to weaken us. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Pet 5:8).

Pray more, so that our hearts may stay vigilant. Pray earnestly so that we may do the will of God. What pleases God more than a prayerful heart? Wouldn't God be very glad to bless us bountifully if we do so? God is the source from whom all blessings flow. Let's draw strength and wisdom from Him, so that we may be "the man of God."

Adapted from Calvary Jurong B-P Church Weekly 'Encouragement Page',
22 October 2006.