Reading the Word

2 Timothy 3:14–17 (ESV)

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15 and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Heritage is important. The person you are today is greatly shaped by the people who have been in your life in the past, especially your family. Paul reminds Timothy of this important truth and tells him to hold onto the things he has learned and to remember those he has learned from. Timothy’s teachers have included Paul himself, Timothy’s grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice (cf. 1 Timothy 1:5).

Who are the people who have most influenced you? Have you thought about how your influence effects others? Heritage is a powerful and important piece of who we are. Let’s be aware of how we have been shaped so we can hold onto what is good and let us also think about how our lives shape others. Let us determine to show love and always be pointing to Christ.

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