2 Timothy 3:16-17 - “16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”

INTRO

Do you remember the movie Avengers Infinity War or Avenger End Game? If you haven’t watched any of the Marvel movies you would still probably recognize the name Thanos or the name Avengers. For over 20 movies the plot was to collect things called the “Infinity Stones” that would grant the user unlimited power over various elements culminating into a fight of good vs. evil with good triumphing in the last movie. What you will notice with the movies, however, is that the final battles didn’t take place until all the stones were collected. Both Thanos and the Avengers had to spend time in preparation in order to attempt to accomplish their mission. Whether that was game planning, a good defense or a good offense; preparation to acquire the perfect protection and set of powers was key.

Transition Statement: Very similarly we’re on a mission that we need to be equipped for. The mission that we are on has us fighting back against the powers of the enemy that are trying to make us fall. However, God has given us His Word that prepares us for our protection against the enemies attacks as well as gives us power to fight back!

Preparation

(2 Timothy 3:17 / Psalm 119: 11)

What you do in private matters more than what you do in public.

God wants to prepare you before the battle. This looks like taking time to read and study the Word before your day gets started in the morning, or before you go to sleep at night. 

Preparation also looks like memorizing a Scripture and having it on your mind while you’re walking through your day.

“God uses it to prepare and equip his people.” 2 Timothy 3:17a

“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. ” Psalm 119:11

Protection

(2 Timothy 3:16 / Psalm 119:9)

The greatest protection that the Lord gives us is the ability to know right from wrong according to His Word.

God gives us His Scriptures that protect us from acting and walking in a way that can lead to our own destruction.

The ultimate protection is obeying God’s Word and walking in God’s ways because this ultimately leads to a place of life for us!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” 2 Timothy 3:16

“How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word.” Psalm 119:9

Power 

(Matthew 28:19c-20 / Matthew 20:25-28)

The Word is not only a protective shield but it is also an offensive weapon!

There is power when you don’t just memorize the Word, but you speak it out loud!

Recitation and declaration is when you go on the offense and declare the truth about God that cuts out the lies of the enemy and allows you to do the word of the Lord.

“I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us.” Psalm 119:13

“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

“...to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:17b

CONCLUSION

Whether you are beginning with reading a verse a day or have been reading chapters. God wants to equip you with His Word. We cannot walk in this life without the Word of God. We need to remain prepared, protected, and full of power so that we will be able to walk in purpose! “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105

Bgroup Questions

1. What is the greatest obstacle to reading your Bible?
2. What are some ways you can build a better rhythm for reading God’s Word?
3. What is a time, place, and reading plan you can have to get started? Would you like to partner with someone to stay accountable? If so, who comes to mind?

TAKE ACTION: Take the last question into account and build out a plan. Share it with your friend and your Squad leader!

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