Working Hard, Unashamed

We cannot earn salvation, for it is “the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). We are saved and called “not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:9).

But the Bible also directs us to look at our actions in another light. Although we’re not supposed to work in order to earn salvation or become accepted by God, our conduct does demonstrate our choices. It can show that we are actively seeking to please Him, developing the gifts and talents He has given us.

Paul made this point clearly when writing to Timothy, urging this young disciple to “work hard” (NLT). Why? Because God was looking at his life and would evaluate the choices he made. Paul wanted Timothy to be able to receive God’s full approval.

Timothy already was saved, but Paul encouraged him to “be a good worker” and a person who didn’t need to be “ashamed.” Here Paul used a Greek word found nowhere else in the Bible. He was stressing that it’s possible for Believers to be saved, yet to do things that cause us to be ashamed before God. We can find ourselves regretting our decisions and actions.

Paul also wanted Timothy to able to explain God’s Word correctly. The implication is that we don’t automatically understand the Bible when we are saved. We need to study!

The Greek word here implies cutting straight. Paul was saying that it’s possible not to “handle” God’s Word in the right way. But we can prevent this by working hard—by digging and probing, not content with insights that are obvious, superficial, or traditional. We must be hungry for more, asking God to reveal deeper truths.

In your life, seek to be diligent about your faith. Don’t just coast, but work hard. Study diligently and act faithfully. Be a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed.