For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 WEB
This epistle to the Hebrews is full of references to Old Testament scriptures. The authorship of the letter is not stated but traditionally it is attributed to the apostle Paul. Some scholars, however, say that the style is not Paul’s. Whoever wrote it, it Is clear that they are very familiar with the religion of the Israelites.
Describing the word of God is living and active, this scripture teaches the vitality of God’s word as alive and working in our lives. As Christians, we know that Jesus is the Word of God. As we read in John 1:14, “The Word became flesh, and lived among us. We saw his glory, such glory as of the one and only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth. WEB” In Christ, we have a personal relationship with the Word.
Good and Evil
Describing the God’s word as sharper than any two-edged sword, the author describes the power of the word to divide the godly from the ungodly. To put it another way, the word of God makes clear the difference between good and evil. With the word of God, we can easily discern our sinful nature from the will of God.
The bible teaches in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. KJV” Our circumstances are often dictated by our thoughts. When we focus on the word of God, circumstances and outcomes are directly impacted. The living, active word is transformative in our lives.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your living and active word. Give me wisdom. As I focus on your word and will, help me put what I learn into practice in service to your kingdom. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: That I May Know Him
