In Hebrews 4:12 we read that God’s word “is living and powerful.” Jesus, in John 6:63, said, “The words that I speak to you are spirit and they are life.”
Lately, I have felt absolutely compelled by the Lord to keep reminding us that the Bible is literally God’s word and that we need to immerse ourselves in it because troublesome days are coming upon us and God’s word needs to be our anchor. I have been so blessed knowing many of you accepted Pastor Jim’s challenge to read the Bible throughout this year.
I love what Paul wrote to the people in 1 Thessalonians 2:13, “For this reason, we also thank God without ceasing because when you received the Word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the Word of God, which also effectively works in you.” As you look at what Paul wrote, you have to conclude that God’s Word is life; it is Spirit, it is alive; active; energetic, and it works effectively in those who believe.
In Colossians 3:16, the Apostle Paul wrote – “Let the message (Word) of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” The word “dwell” has the sense of God’s word feeling at home in your heart. Does God’s word feel “comfortable” and “at ease” in the environment of your heart? If we backed up to Colossians 3:15 we would find Paul saying – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
So, we are to have the peace of Christ ruling in our hearts. His peace promotes unity among the members of His church. If His peace is ruling in our hearts, then we will be at peace with each other. Thank God for that reality.
Next, we see in Colossians 3:16 that if God’s Word is at home in our hearts, we will be fully alive spiritually and we will not participate in sins such as sexual immorality, jealousy, anger, hurtful words, etc. Rather we are to live a life full of humility, patience, forgiveness, acceptance, and most of all love.
Jesus Christ is God in the flesh, and the Scriptures are the inspired word of God. Is the peace of Jesus ruling in your heart and life? Has God’s inspired word taken up residence in your heart so that it occupies every nook and cranny of your life? This is what happens when we, as Spirit-filled believers, teach others the truths of the gospel and encourage each other to live according to the truths of the gospel; and we sing songs that celebrate, elevate and express thanks for the good news about Jesus.
In James 1:21 we read, “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” Folks – read that verse slowly. Think of the impact God’s word can have on our lives. James says that when we receive God’s word with meekness it will actually save our souls!”
Let me close this meditation with one further thought. In Romans 10:17 we read, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
In Hebrews 11:6 we read,” But without faith, it is impossible to please God, for he that comes to God must believe that He is (exists) and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Looking back for just a moment to Romans 10:17 I see three things that happen in the process or progression –
1) We begin with God’s Word.
2) We hear God’s Word…it creates an interest in us.
3) Faith develops as we hear God’s Word and let it take root in our hearts and lives.
Beloved of God, I pray that each of us will experience the impact of God’s word daily, and live by it.
Yours for a powerful life,
Pastor Leonard
