Two-Edged Sword

Scripture:

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Observation:

The Word of God is not simply a collection of words from God, a vehicle for communicating ideas; it is living, life-changing, and dynamic as it works in us. With the incisiveness of a surgeon's knife, God's Word reveals who we are and what we are not. It penetrates the core of our moral and spiritual life. It discerns what is within us, both good and evil. The demands of God's Word require decisions. We must not only listen to the Word; we must also let it shape our lives.

Application:

The devil isn't going to send you a congratulatory telegram because you've decided to live for Jesus. No, every chance he gets he's going to attack you. "Attack me where?" In your areas of vulnerability! "But I don't believe in the devil" you say. He'll be glad to hear that - he does his best work under the cloak of anonymity.

Paul writes, "Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). Notice the words, "so that you can take your stand." The armour is God's; the stand is yours! God's armour is for those who are willing to stand for what's important: like the salvation of your family, the success of your marriage, your walk with God, or anything else that's of value to you. The message is clear: suit up, stand up and hold your ground! Pay particular attention to Paul's words in Ephesians 6:17: "Take… the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God." The sword referred to here is a large dagger used for fighting at close range.

Understand this: some days you'll have to go toe-to-toe with the devil. To defeat him you'll need to know how to use God's Word, which is described as "living… sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12 NIV). Your Bible can determine with pinpoint accuracy what's going on in your life. When you come face-to-face with the devil it's the only weapon capable of rendering him powerless. So, prepare for attack by living in God's Word!

Prayer:

"Lord, help me to daily understand the power of Your Word. I need to read it, study it, meditate on it, memorize it and speak it. In Jesus name, amen!"