Read 2 Timothy 2:14–18
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Each of us as God’s workman will be either approved or ashamed. The word approved means “one who has been tested and found acceptable.” The term was used for testing and approving metals. Each trial that we go through forces us to study the Word to find God’s will. As we rightly use the Word, we succeed in overcoming our trials, and God approves us.

Martin Luther once said that prayer, study, and suffering make a pastor; and this is true. We cannot be approved unless we are tested. What does it mean to be ashamed? Certainly it means that such a workman’s production is below standard and cannot be accepted. It means loss of reward.

In fact, in Paul’s day, a builder was fined if he failed to follow the specifications. When the Lord judges our works, it will be revealed whether we as workmen have handled the Word of God honestly and carefully. Some who are now first will end up last!

Something to Ponder
In what ways have you been tested and found acceptable in your spiritual walk?