07/03/2025
When we look at the powerful truths found in 2 Timothy 2:15 and Psalm 1:1-4, we see a clear call to humility, discipline, and a deep love for God’s Word. 2 Timothy 2:15 urges us to study diligently, to rightly divide the Word of Truth, and to be approved by God—not by men. Psalm 1 shows us the life of a righteous person: one who delights in the law of the Lord, meditates on it day and night, and bears fruit in season.
However, when spiritual pride is present, these sacred scriptures can be misapplied. A person with spiritual pride may see themselves as the tree planted by rivers of water, convinced that all their interpretations are righteous and that questioning them is akin to questioning the Word of God itself. They may use 2 Timothy 2:15 to claim authority, suggesting that because they have studied and divided the Word, they cannot be wrong. But true spiritual maturity is marked by humility, not defensiveness.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:20, 'Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.' That means character, conduct, and spiritual fruit are the evidence of a person's true standing—not just their ability to quote Scripture. A person who walks with God will bear the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. When someone begins to use Scripture as a weapon to silence others or elevate themselves, it becomes necessary to ask: what kind of fruit is their life producing?
If someone reacts strongly when their interpretation of Scripture is questioned—especially the words of Jesus, the red letters—they may be more concerned with being right than with being righteous. The words of Christ do not contradict other Scriptures; they fulfill them. If someone is pitting Scripture against Scripture, or dismissing the red letters, that is a clear sign to pause and reflect.
Psalm 1 tells us the righteous person meditates on the law day and night. This meditation brings growth and righteousness, not arrogance or harshness. The person who truly delights in the Word will not be threatened by honest discussion or honest correction. Instead, they will welcome it, because their desire is to know God more, not merely to win arguments. We are called to study the Word, delight in it, bear fruit, and recognize others by their fruit. Let us be found humble before God, open to learning, and committed to rightly dividing His Word with grace and truth—not using it to defend our pride, but to display Christ.
