“Be diligent (study) to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV
“Are you in?” was the phrase of the night… and it was said often! ‘The Sleepover’ was specifically for our ‘older’ grandkids because, as we all know, shared interests are often determined by age. Wanting to play a game together, ‘Tripoly’ was suggested and everyone agreed, or swe THOUGHT they did. The game was underway when several had to repeatedly ask one player ‘the phrase!’
Tripoly is a card game that is most fun when played at a faster rate. The goal is to be the first one out of cards, and cards laid are determined, in order, by what other players have already thrown. For example, “3 of hearts” follows “2 of hearts.” as they holler and lay their cards in order. Players need to sort, fan-out and watch their cards, as failure to play a card affects the game’s outcome.
It was soon clear by silence, and then by observation, that one player wasn’t playing. They had not fanned-out, nor were they playing their cards. Irritation soon rose because players couldn’t get rid of THEIR cards if 1 player wasn’t ’in’ the game. So an ultimatum was given by the group… ‘either play or quit!’ Because inattentive sitting at the table is not an option when playing Tripoly!
When it comes to being a follower of Jesus Christ, today’s verse is a ‘seriously kind’ way of saying ‘either play or quit!’ Simply asking someone if they ‘believe’ in Jesus Christ can get a ‘look like’ someone is ‘in.’ But looks can be deceiving! Pretending to be a part of the Body of Christ affects the success of every member of a Family or Church. The 2nd part of the verse implies a warning!
‘Study’ or ‘be diligent’ is a command from God. It is NOT a suggestion. Not ‘liking’ to read’ is not a legitimate excuse for a pretender. Getting rid of personal ‘bad cards’ is a sign of growing. And growing produces even MORE studying because, if I love Jesus, having MORE of Him makes life even MORE interesting and fun. Being a ’work-person’ for Jesus proves that I am His winner!
Are YOU participating in God’s game of Life? Are you IN? Are you actively reading and studying God’s Word to get more of Him? Do you have God’s approval or are you mostly ashamed? Now is the time to pick up His Word and get in the game because.. It’s your turn!
