Powerful and Penetrating

There are lots of powerful things in this world. As I write this, we’re on the verge of a very big winter storm that will bring lots of snow and ice, plus bone chilling temperatures. It should keep us home for a day or two. Other weather conditions, like blinding rain and tornadoes, are also formidable. Nuclear energy has great power, as do some governmental leaders… both of which can be toxic. All these things can impact our schedules, attitudes, and even our lives. At least outwardly.

Hebrews 4:12 is a verse many of us probably know. We may even have it memorized. But have we ever really looked at it? 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)

It tells us that Scripture is alive, not some dead piece of literature. It has energy and relevance. It is active, meaning powerful and effective. We may know it’s the only weapon in our spiritual arsenal, the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Eph 6:17), that enables us to stand firm and fend off the Enemy. But that’s not the aspect Hebrews 4:12 is addressing.

This verse not only tells us the Word is sharp, but it’s penetrating. Not something we thrust into others, but rather allow to pierce ourselves. It divides my soul from my spirit; my joints from my marrow. It discerns my thoughts and intentions. I don’t fully know what’s going on in my mind and heart but God does. And His Word can reach, reveal, and even correct or adjust it as necessary. But only if I allow it to.