And take the sword of the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17. ESV.
The word of God is described in this verse as the sword of the Spirit. According to Hebrews 4:12, for the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (ESV). What a gift to us. This active and living word we can implement in our lives for ourselves and others. In His loving wisdom, He gave us His truth to use to get to know Him and ourselves better.
The word used for sword here, means a dagger. It was used for close combat. They had the shield in one hand and used the dagger in the other. Most of our warfare against our enemy is close combat, isn’t it? Satan loves to attack us with doubt, unbelief, insecurities and fears, etc. So how do we fight them? By using the truth found in God’s Word.
In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was God, and the Word was God Himself. John 1:1 AMP. The reason the word of God is alive and powerful is because it is Christ. Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15. AMP. The purpose of studying is to learn about Him and His ways. It is not getting more facts, but it is to help us grow in our relationship with Him. This insight has led me to appreciate my time in His Word even more. I appreciate even the parts I still don’t understand. As I read the begats, I think about how He knew and saw everyone, the same way He knows me. It amazes me, as well as inspires me.
I read somewhere that knowing the Word helps us understand who God is and how God sees us. It is true. Sometimes the truth of Hebrews 4:12 it exposes our innermost thoughts and desires, hits a little too close to home. I have learned to pay attention when God’s Word exposes the little foxes hidden in my heart. It is freeing to know He already knows my frame and wants to help me become more like Him. Often it is a reminder of how much we still need a Savior. The Message version of 1 Peter 1:17 is a great example. You call out to God for help and he helps–he’s a good Father that way. But don’t forget, he’s also a responsible Father, and won’t let you get by with sloppy living. Ouch, in a good way. When he exposes our “sloppy” living, it is for our benefit and blessing. Reading and applying these adjustments to our lives is another way we defeat the devil. We aren’t handing him a stick to hit us with.
Learning to stand on the truth of God’s Word is crucial for victory, not only for ourselves, but for others. We must learn to use God’s Word to help others, not wound them. Remember: For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12. ESV. Reading the list of these spiritual enemies reminds me just how strong the battle is against God’s people. However, it also reminds me how strong and powerful God’s Word is. We must release our faith when we use God’s Word, trusting it will bring down the forces of darkness. My friends, we are not play fighting because this is serious business. Our Commander-in-Chief wants to equip us for war. He wants to train us so we can stand against every wile of the enemy. Do not fear. He is more than able, and so are we. Take the authority you have been given in Christ, and tell him “no, not on my watch”. Stand firm in what you know. Do not let Satan push you around. Believe God’s Word. Use God’s Word. Stand on God’s Word. Do not fall for Satan’s accusations against yourself or others. Remember, Satan is a liar, and the father of lies. God’s Word is Truth, aren’t you glad?
Father, I thank you for showing us just how strong and powerful your Word is. It is able to defeat every wily scheme of our enemy. Please teach us how to use your Word more effectively. Train us in your ways, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 