“For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, AMP)
Wow! Did you ever consider that the book in your hand, the Bible, is able to do all that!? Did you realize that it is living, it is active, it is full of power? That the word is so sharp that it can divide the soul and spirit thus judging very thought and intention of our heart? Perhaps if we gave God’s Word its due, we would handle it with more care?
I think most Christians consider the Bible as our manual (even if they don’t really know what to do with that description). I would suggest that the Hebrews scripture doesn’t seem to be emphasized as much as it should, because this verse gives a vivid picture of what the word is. (We tend to consider 1 Timothy 3:16-17 more often. However, when you combine the two, what a strong chord is weaved.) ALL scripture (1 Timothy) and living, active, powerful (Hebrews).
Does this give you a different understanding (appreciation?) of the Bible? For me, it also places a greater significance to the scripture that says:
“For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” (Revelations 22:18-19, NKJV)
That’s not a threat… nor a promise… it is what will happen. I don’t believe God ever messes with His word. So.. why should we? We may not completely understand, but that’s not a reason to ignore or distort. We may not like or appreciate what’s said, but that’s not a reason to change the changeless word of God. This is a given. What’s said… Is.
The Word of God gives us a standard, a structure, a foundation, a methodology that only enhances who we are and can become when we follow it. It should never be viewed as a hindrance to what we may want… but it is there to protect us if we follow it. It is meant to enhance us, equip us, enable us to become all we can be… if we follow it.
