Monday, March 14, 2016
Hebrews 4:12 reads: “For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” This verse should remind us today that the Word of God (the Bible) is a powerful resource. It can be used to teach, reprove, comfort, encourage, and instruct. And because it is like a powerful weapon, it can do more harm than good when used by those who do not know it.
How often have we heard of children who have killed others by fooling around with a gun they found laying around the house? That is why God’s children, and especially those who serve Him in the ministry of the Word, need to know their bible well and use it correctly. That is also why Paul advised Timothy: “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who needs not be ashamed, who rightly divides the Word of Truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)
The Bible is our strong defense against any thing or being that comes against us. The best example of this truth is Jesus when He defeated every temptation Satan could throw at Him in the wilderness merely by His “It is written” comments. That it penetrates to the soul and spirit means that it does something on the inside of a person. As I mentioned before, it can comfort, encourage, assure, or even bring fear to those who read or hear it. How often have you heard others say that what the teacher or pastor was saying was personally directed at them? Has that happened to you as well? This happens because God’s Word knows and judges the different thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Thank God that, as His children, we do not have to fear His Word as so many other people in this world do. Nevertheless, we all need to study and learn it better, and then use it for our benefit. Those who go deep into God’s Word, will hardly ever find themselves in deep trouble.
Memory verse for the week: (Psalm 119:72) “The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.”