Daily Devotional – Friday, August 12, 2022
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…
Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)
Prophet Jeremiah underlines the deprivation of the human mind when he writes, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is extremely sick. Who can understand it fully and know its secret motives?” (Jeremiah 17:9 Amplified Bible).
Indeed, it is impossible for human beings, by their own power, to stop sinning. The prophet uses interesting imagery to emphasize this fact. “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil.” (Jeremiah 13:23).
The Word of God is Living and Powerful
How, then, can we attain holiness, without which no man shall see God? (See Hebrews 12:14). The solution is in reading / hearing the word of God and living by it on a continuous basis.
The book of Hebrews captures it aptly:
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12).
How God’s Word Transforms Sinners
This verse indicates that the Word of God has life-changing power. When we allow it to penetrate our lives it is more efficient that a two-edged sword. It cuts out sin from our lives. It identifies and eliminates evil motives and thoughts.
In essence, the Word of God, cherished and practiced, gradually transforms sinners into righteous people. The more we read or listen to God’s voice, the more we become like Him in character.
If you are struggling to live righteously, you need to become a more diligent student of the Word of God.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, create in me a thirst for Your Word. I long to be like You.
