by Brian Wachter
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” — 2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV)
Reading the Bible for personal encouragement is one thing. Becoming a practitioner of the Word of God is another—someone who allows the Word to nourish their own soul, and who also uses it skillfully to help others come to faith and grow in Christ.
In Paul’s words to Timothy, we’re urged to present ourselves to God as workers/labourers—not just casual readers or occasional quoters of Scripture, but people whose lives are being shaped by His truth. Why? Because the Word of God is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). It has been given to build us up (Acts 20:32), nourish us (John 6:63), and equip us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17). And when we handle it well, it transforms not only our own lives, but also the lives of those around us.
Nourishment for Our Souls
Jesus said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). The Word of God is not dry information or religious obligation—it is spiritual nourishment for the heart. Just as we need daily bread to sustain our bodies, we need God’s Word daily to feed and shape our souls.
Without regular intake of the Word, we become spiritually malnourished—more vulnerable to discouragement, temptation, and confusion. But as we feed on it, we are renewed in hope, reminded of truth, and drawn deeper into relationship with Christ.
It’s no surprise, then, that Paul instructs Timothy to “rightly handle the word of truth.” The phrase implies cutting straight—handling Scripture with accuracy, integrity, and care. This kind of faithful handling begins in our own hearts. We don’t read the Bible just to gain knowledge, but to encounter the living God and be transformed by Him.
Helping Others Grow
But the Word of God is not meant to stop with us. One of the most powerful ways to use it is in one-on-one relationships. As we grow in our understanding of Scripture, we can come alongside a friend or a younger believer and help them engage with God’s Word for themselves.
Here are some simple ways to do this:
- Read the Word together. Choose a Gospel, a short epistle, or a section of the Old Testament. Read a passage and discuss it. Ask: What does this tell us about God? About ourselves? How should we respond?
- Model how to ask good questions. Show others how to observe, interpret, and apply Scripture. Ask: What stood out to you? How can we live this truth out today?
- Share what God is showing you. Be honest and personal about how the Word is speaking to you—and invite them to do the same. Authenticity is contagious.
- Memorise Scripture together. Pick a verse or passage and commit it to memory. Talk about how it connects with real-life situations.
- Pray the Word together. Turn Scripture into prayer—praising God for what He’s revealed and asking Him for help to obey.
- Share the Word together. Put it all into practice. Help someone understand the basics of the gospel and let them watch as you engage in spiritual conversations using God’s Word with others.
When we help others learn to engage the Bible deeply, we equip them not just with knowledge, but with a lifelong relationship with God through His Word—something they, in turn, can pass on to others.
A Final Word
Becoming a practitioner of the Word isn’t about perfection—it’s about faithful, regular engagement. As you feast on Scripture and pass it on to others, you’re joining a long line of workers who have helped preserve and spread God’s truth through generations.
So let the Word nourish your own soul deeply—and then give it away freely. For in doing so, you will be “a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”
Click here for a list of resources to help you practice God’s Word
Bible Study: Head, Heart, Hands
Head:
Read 2 Timothy 2:15; John 6:63; 2 Timothy 3:16–17.
How clearly do you understand what it means to actively handle God’s Word?
Heart:
Reflect on your personal approach to Scripture.
Is the Bible currently nourishing and transforming your life? Why or why not?
Hands:
Choose one practical step this week to engage more deeply with Scripture—and help someone else grow spiritually. Share your plan with a mentor or small group.
Becoming a practitioner of God’s Word brings lasting spiritual impact—to you and to others.