|
10 Tools for Maintaining a Clean Heart #1: The Sword: Word of God
Scripture: Hebrews 4: 11-12 "Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disbodience. For the word of God is living 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." I love homeschooling because I can easily tailor the curriculum and my teaching style to meet the needs of my kids. Each child is uniquely different and their strenghts, needs and learning styles are often very different if you take the time to explore them. Teaching to their learning style makes the difference between chaos and calm!! God also tailors the word of God to each individual. When I looked up verses about the word of God, meaning the scriptures, I found a couple of references to a sword. "sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God " in Ephesians 6 and in Hebres 4 (above). So for this tool picture a sword. Not only does this " sword" help us defeat the enemy in arming for battle but it also conficts, teaches and corrects us. In the verse above the word of God is a living thing! It "talks" to our innermost being (joints and marrow). The word of God is like train rails keeping us on the right track through conviction and guidance. Spending time daily in the the word is absolutely essential! Once a week at bible study or church is not enough. It is individual thing that "touches" each person differently. This verse for example; many people can read it but each one probably hears something different in their own mind. This is because God designed it to be individualized for each person and at that particular point in their life. I have read several verses many times and it "says" something different to me at different times in my life. So how do we "spend" time in the word? Again, it is different for each person. Sometimes I do an individual bible study from a book, other times I just am focusing on a certain word or concept. For example last year, I spend a month or two just "researching" the word/concept of HOPE. It was amazing! Lately I have been focusing on verses that pertain to this devotional about the attitudes of the heart. I ususally also try to read through the bible as well. I have different versions handy just to see what the other ones say about the concept I am studying. I know that some people think reading the bible is boring, but if done with the right reasons, an open heart, and complete love of God, it is amazing! I have learned more in the last few years by doing my "own" studies than in 10 years of doing bible studies from a book. I have learned more about me and what God has planned for me. Many written bible studies are very good for certain topics like marriage, prayer, etc., but to truly get to know what God has to say to YOU, you have to not place him in a Box and just go with his guidance. You will know if you spend time in prayer- our next tool in our toolbox for maintaining a clean heart! Word of God + Spirit+ SWORD (Isn't it funny how these two phrases make the word- sword!) Reflection: How do you usualy use th bible? Do you spend time reading the bible every day? What can you do to open "the lines of communication" for what God has to say to you? Prayer: Lord, I open my heart and my mind to recieve your word. I pray for wisdom and guidance when reading the word of God. Thank you so much for giving me the Sword of the Spirit, so that I can recieve the messages you have for me each day. I will meditate on your Word all thoughout my day reflecting on your teaching so that I may become more like you. In Jesus name-Amen |
Comments