"The Armor Series - The Sword of the SPIRIT - Part 7 of 7"

 

Ephesians 6:17 "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the SPIRIT, which is the WORD of GOD;"

     The "sword of the SPIRIT" is "the WORD of GOD" -- the Bible. "All Scripture is given by inspiration of GOD, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2nd. Timothy 3:16). The word "inspiration" in this verse means "GOD breathed," signifying that the words came directly from the LORD (1st.Peter 1:11-12; 2nd.Peter 1:20-21 pictured above). Despite the clarity of 2nd.Timothy 3:16, so many deny its truth, including some who claim to be Christians. Why do people reject the Scriptures ? Is it because its doctrines are challenging ? Or is it that the Bible rebukes and convicts the reader as his sin is revealed ? Or is it because the WORD dares to communicate a way of living ("instruction in righteousness") that is contrary to man's ways ? May we never allow these excuses to keep us from believing and obeying GOD's WORD.

     We know that the follower of the LORD should regularly read and learn the Bible: "Study to show thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of truth" (2nd.Timothy 2:15). We need to hide its WORDs in our heart (Psalm 119:11 pictured above) and meditate on them (think about how we can "flesh out" Scripture's lessons in our life, Psalm 119:15 pictured above). But beyond just reading and thinking upon the WORD of GOD, it is vital that we obey it: "But be ye doers of the WORD, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves" (James 1:22). Like a sword, the Scriptures "cut" -- they separate the saint, who humbly follows the Bible's commands, from sin. Just as a soldier who merely carries a sword and does not know how to use it, so is the child of GOD who has the WORD but does not submit himself to its divinely revealed truth. KGL

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation