October 19, 2010
Hebrews 4
Pastor JoAn Blackmon
“For the word of God is living 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.” Hebrews 4:12
This is one of those scriptures that is almost jaw-dropping in its meaning for us. It teaches us these truths:
- The Word of God is alive; it is vibrant and fruitful; it creates, restores, and heals. Every passage of His Word pulsates with truth, hope, and redemption.
- The Word is powerful; it is living energy! It is described as fire, a hammer, and a sword. The prophet Isaiah wrote that God’s Word cannot return “void” – it always does what it sets out to do.
- The Word of God is always “on target.” It is perfectly accurate in its message and mission.
- It is sharp - it has never met a barrier in the soul or spirit of man that it could not penetrate. It is for both offensive and defensive use.
- The Word of God is penetrating; it goes deep into the recesses of our very soul and spirit. It has two edges – either cutting to save our lives or judging us to eternal death.
- The Word of God is discerning. In other words, it exposes even our secret thoughts and motives - we are “laid bare” before Him. The literal translation of this verse is the picture of grasping someone about the neck so that they are forced to look up. God’s Word grips us in such a way that we must look up into His face. He sees us inside and out, and we are left with a sobering awareness of our sins and weaknesses.
“…we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16
As you read His Word, remember that it is living and active. Be energized and refreshed by its truth. Grasp its power to change your life. Allow it to open and penetrate your heart as you draw close to Him.
At some point during the day, as surely as you are likely to see your own sinfulness, be confident that God’s grace and mercy are there for the asking!
