Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

Most people have a desire to do their best work and gain their employer’s favor. As a workman for God, we should strive all the more to be a faithful worker. Paul commanded Timothy to be diligent. This word conveys the idea of conscientiously doing a task with intense effort and motivation. It suggests zealous concentration coupled with an intensity of purpose. This is not the picture of a dilettante, but one of all out commitment. How diligent are you to give your utmost for service to God?

The word for approved denotes that which has been tested and is authorized for service. This word was used to describe coins that were genuine because they had been purified by fire. Christians seek to be approved by God as they grow in godliness. When we are approved we do not experience the painful emotions of shame or guilt.

We gain God’s approval as we accurately handle God’s word. This literally means to make a straight cut. Metaphorically, this word describes one who is carefully performing a task. The present tense calls for us to make this a continuous habit. Paul was a tent maker by trade and perhaps he had in mind the need to accurately cut the pieces so they could properly fit together.

Are you living your life as one who is approved to God? The true test of being approved to God is not our intellect, but our obedience.