But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.
II Timothy 3:14-17

All of us have a clean slate for living as we move into a new year. All of us have an opportunity to fill the days ahead with what we choose. Maybe we will make this a new year of studying God’s Word.

In II Timothy, the old churchman, Paul, reminds Timothy, the young pastor, to stay focused on the Word of God in the scriptures that he had been exposed to since his childhood. Paul told Timothy that scripture can be useful in helping us live our lives as God’s faithful people.

In the New Year, we can join Paul, Timothy, and the generations of Christ’s followers as we regularly open the Bible for our daily diet of scripture. Maybe you will spend this new year reading the entire story of Jesus’ life in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Maybe you will read one Psalm each day. Maybe you will read the start of the story of God and God’s people in Genesis, and find our final story in Revelation. All scripture is inspired by God, and just waiting for us to be reminded of our salvation and then continue to be equipped for every good work.

Prayer

Dear God, as I open the Bible up each day this New Year, speak to me of the grace, love, and purpose you have for me in Christ Jesus my Lord. Amen.