The sharpness of the Word cuts through to the bone and penetrates deep into the inner recesses of our spiritual being. The Word of God stops at nothing until it brings all sin into the open. It judges our thoughts, our intentions, and our secret motivations. It seeks to cut out the sins that are rotting our souls.
But just as a surgeon would not cut into a body without closing the open wound, the Bible works the same way. While it may be painful to have the Word lay us bare and cut us to our core, it finishes the job by healing and restoring us. After we face the conviction of our sin, the Word blesses and strengthens us. We find grace and forgiveness in the Word of God.
After we face the conviction of our sin, the Word blesses and strengthens us.
The Word of God revives us. It teaches us; it brings us joy. We can trust that everything we read is right and true and just. The Word of God is more precious than gold and sweeter than honey. We may feel pain from the surgeon's incision, but the benefits of being restored to health outweigh any temporary struggle. And when we appreciate the work of the surgeon, we can joyfully anticipate the lessons and Truths that His Word brings.
But being convicted by God's Word through the Holy Spirit is only the first step. When we are confronted by our misguided beliefs or hidden sins, we must change our ways. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (James 1:22).
What has God shown you in the Scripture recently that you have tried to ignore? Have you been cut by the double-edged sword but refuse to receive the healing?
Prayer: God, thank You for the healing power of Your Word. Help me to respond in obedience when Your Word reveals things that I need to change so that I might be healed. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"I said, 'Have mercy on me, Lord; heal me, for I have sinned against you'" (Psalm 41:4).
Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon series Heal Me, O God: LISTEN NOW
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