The Sword of the Spirit: Hebrews 4:12-13; Ephesians 6:17
“12) For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13) And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:12-13
The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to purify the people of God. As we abide in His Word we position ourself for growth, fruitfulness and effective intercession. (See John 15:7-8)
Gods Word is powerful. It is like a sharp two-edged sword. It will bring both conviction and correction. (See 2 Timothy 3:16-17) It will pierce deep into the soul and spirit and can separate joint and marrow. As you study and memorize Gods Word, it will begin to act as an inner warning system and expose the thoughts and intensions of our hearts. It will become like an inner carbon monoxide detector to warn of pending danger.
Gods Word also reveals the character and nature of God. It is through the study of the Word that we develop a holy fear and reverence for God. Book after book of the Old Testament shows that no person can sin and hide from God. We are accountable for our actions. “… All things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” (Hebrews 4:13)
He knows our deeds and actions, but He also knows our thoughts and motives. He knows if we are pretentious or sincere. He knows if we are truthful or deceived.
When I came to this realization, I quit playing games with God. I became honest, truthful and real. It brought me to total surrender. Gods Word exposed and cut away my sinful ways.
But it also opened the door to understand and embrace the acceptance and loving kindness of God. He is our all knowing Father and we are the apple of His eye. We no longer need to run and hide in shame like Adam and Eve from the presence of God, rather we can run to Him for grace, mercy and help.
Gods Word is the foundation for a deep and secure relationship with Him. Abiding in His Word is abiding in the vine. (John 15:1-16) God wants to feed and nurture us with His daily manna. He wants to reveal Himself to us through His Word. He wants us to know Him.
According to Ephesians 6:17, the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit. It equips us for battle. It is a vital piece of our armor. Every child of God needs to become skilled in applying and handling Gods Word. We are naked and defenseless without it.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
