The Sword of the Spirit
And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:17b
Read Hebrews 4:12-16
It is remarkable that in listing the last instrument necessary for spiritual
battle a device is mentioned for offensive measures. All the other articles, in
one way or another, were for protection and defense from the enemy. But a
sword is an instrument used to attack an enemy. How are we to understand
this spiritually? Is this some kind of aggressive evangelism by which the
blade is placed on one’s throat and the ultimatum is given: repent or die?
Such a method is not suggested here. God’s Word itself is a sword. Anyone
who handles the Word must realize that it is like a sword with a double,
razor-like edge. Such a sword must have pierced your own soul if you are to
use it properly. God’s Word points out our sins in a most accurate way. We
need this to make us to realize our need for a Saviour. Only those who have
personally been taught by the Lord are able to speak to others of their need.
They should do this with the Bible as their guide, calling sin what it truly is.
At the same time, in a loving way, they should point to Christ whose blood
cleanses from all sin. No one is able to use this sword unless they are daily
instructed from it themselves. Regular Bible study is very important.
How do you read the Bible? Have you tried to dull its point, taking off its
sharp edges? Has your Bible lost its cutting edge? Have you remained intact,
escaping without experiencing a broken heart and a contrite spirit? Those
who have been wounded by this sword are blessed, for when we are broken
by our guilt we end up at the feet of the Lord Jesus. We are given the sword
of the Word to fight the good fight of faith. Therefore put on this sword of
the Spirit today!
Thought: Without pain there will be no healing.
Psalter 124:1,3 (based on Psalm 45)
My heart doth overflow, A goodly theme is mine;
My eager tongue with joyful song Doth praise the King Divine.
Now gird Thee with Thy sword, O strong and mighty One,
In splendid majesty arrayed, More glorious than the sun.
