Greetings Brethren,

     I recently started reading a book that is honestly a bit over my head. I actually need a dictionary nearby so that I can look up many of the words used by this accomplished author. Although this results in my need to read slower and reread sections over and over, I found that it's actually providing an opportunity to broaden my vocabulary. It also helping me understand in greater detail the context of what the author is trying to convey.

     Yes, I admit it can be frustrating at times. However, I do find it interesting to discover a word that has the ability to portray a more vivid concept than what often we use many words to do. Our language is beautiful and full or many of these discoveries that have the potential to enhance our communication. So many of these expressive words are just waiting for us to uncover. We just have to take the initiative to read them and learn their meaning. 

     As I thought of this concept, I was reminded of a very important scripture in 2 Timothy 2:15 where the Apostle Paul writes, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The King James version says, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God..."

    God is inviting us daily to discovery powerful words that have the ability to convey a great deal about who He is and His plan for all mankind. Are you diligent to study, to pick up that Holy Book with a desire to learn how to be educated in the things of Holiness? When you speak about the Truths of God do you struggle to convey this to others? Have you ever considered, how broad is my Biblical Vocabulary?

     That's exactly what Paul is saying to this young minister and to us. When we do this, we're gaining biblical knowledge and the ability to rightly divide truth from error. In fact, that is part of what we have been called to do. This exhortation to Timothy and in extension to us, harkens back to what is found in Ezekiel 44:23, "And they shall teach My people the difference between the holy and the unholy, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean."

     Brethren this is a vital aspect of what we have been called to do. In 1 Peter 2:9, we find that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood that are called to proclaim things of God. We must know how to distinguish from what's truth and error, what Holy and Unclean. We must in return be able to teach other how to distinguish between these as well. 

     For this to happen, we must be well versed in God's word and have a broad biblical vocabulary. Just like what Paul told Timothy. Study it, know it, so that you have no reason to be ashamed or lacking when it comes to doing what you have been called to do. 

     So, let's take the time, challenge our level of spiritual knowledge and study these precious words of life. In so doing we'll gain the ability to have what King David desired in Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight." We'll gain a broader biblical vocabulary.

Have a Wonderful Sabbath,

Ryan Hall