Today's Devotion: 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. (The Holy Bible: New International Version. electronic ed. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. 2 Ti 2:15) A Handbook on Paul's Second Letter to Timothy suggests that Paul is telling Timothy that he must do his best, which means to put forth his utmost effort in all his activity.

Today's Comments: Like Timothy, so are we required to put forth our best effort to do God's will. Such effort not only refers to behavior and worship, but it also includes study and giving. Yet, even our greatest efforts are not enough to please a righteous God. We will always be found wanting, except for God's grace and our faith in Jesus Christ, through whom we are all forgiven and reconciled to the Father. Only then can we strive to please God despite our own imperfections, because of His love for His creation.