Sunday 4 March, 2018

12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

I often think of the Bible as a source of encouragement and hope; a place where I can hear from God and a tool to help experience His presence and rest. It is those things but perhaps I’ve missed something. Perhaps it’s more than that. This passage makes the Bible sound more like a weapon and a surgical instrument rather than the pillow I’ve been using it for. And it’s a weapon to use on myself – not just on other people.

Have you ever thought something or done something but you knew your heart wasn’t in it? That deep down there was a lie lying there, way below the surface – below what people see? That’s where I need surgery and the Bible is the tool to get in there.

God has already been there of course. He’s seen that place in me. The question is will I read the Bible in such a way what will allow God to operate on me and remove, once and for all, all that is offensive and wicked and wrong?

Oh Lord God, help me have the same attitude as David did. That as I read your word you will “see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me along the path of everlasting life” Ps139:23-24.   Amen

Written by Boudy VanNoppen