Many see the Bible as the ultimate written guide to living a good and godly life, but do we realise just how powerful a resource it is? When Paul comes to describe the value of the Scriptures in one of his letters to Timothy, he makes their true value crystal clear: ”All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timoth 3:16-17). In other words, they are a complete resource through which a disciple may become fully equipped for life. That’s a bold claim! Earthly programmes of teaching and training recognise that, however good they are, students will vary in their levels of attainment, with only a relatively small number achieving the highest grades. But this is no mere earthly programme, for these words were inspired by Heaven, and the writers of these books were moved by the Holy Spirit to pen a living word with supernatural power to transform. Every time a believer reads the Bible, a miracle happens. It may not be obvious, but the Holy Spirit moves through the word of God to build the likeness of God in the soul. God’s word, whether read in this way or received directly and personally through contemplative prayer, changes everything. Be fully equipped.