II Timothy 3:16 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.
The NLT translates it this way: Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. The NLT goes on in verse 17: God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work. God’s word gives us guidance in that it gives us “instruction in righteousness” (KJV). It addresses sexual sin (I Thess. 4:3) and it reproves us for wrongdoing (Genesis 4:6-7). God’s Word corrects us (Zephaniah 1:4-6) and it teaches us the ways of God (Psalm 103:7—notice that the ways of God are different than the deeds of God). God guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way (Psalm 25:9). Humility is a prerequisite. Dr. Bob Rhoden says, “We read the Bible with our heart.” Louie Giglio says, “The Bible is God’s breath on a page.” Pray before you read it. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak. Don’t rush. Read with a pen in your hand. Open your heart when you open the Bible.