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By Austin Bishop

11 So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall.

12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

— Hebrews 4:11-12 (NLT)

Verse 12 speaks volumes about the importance the Bible should have in our lives. Spending time consuming the Word of God and allowing it to take root in our soul allows us to have a greater understanding of God and His Ways. It also opens up an avenue to a deeper relationship with the Creator Himself.

The Word of God is more than just ink on paper or a handwritten creation of man’s ideas. It is truly God speaking to us. The Bible is not a relic. It is alive and full of hope, wisdom, and deep spiritual truths.

The Word of God has an inseparable relationship with the Holy Spirit. In order to have a greater understanding of the Word it requires relying upon the Holy Spirit for a deep revelation we could never create for ourselves. In return, the Word of God teaches us about the Holy Spirit, how He operates, and the importance of embracing His presence in our lives.

God’s Word separates truths from lies, right from wrong, and morality from immorality. Through the examples of the Old Testament and the hope of the New Testament, it illuminates the path that takes us all where the deepest areas of our soul long to be — in the presence of God.

The only shadows and gray areas in the Word of God are those cast there by men trying to twist it to their personal and immoral advantage.

Soaking in the Word of God and giving it time to seep in the crevices of our hearts, souls. and minds, will bring to light the things that need to be addressed. The Bible speaks its loudest and clearest when we close our minds and open our hearts. While the words may seem to pierce our very soul at times, the Bible is actually cutting away the misunderstandings, false teachings, lies, and confusion that have tried to latch themselves to our Christian walk.

Allow God’s Word to peel back your opinions and reveal His truth in a new and powerful way in your life.

While reading the Word opens our souls to spiritual growth, it is putting those words to use that is the difference maker and transforms us from pretenders to contenders.

A heart that is fully exposed in the presence of God, is one that is ready to be healed, renewed, and set free.

Austin Bishop has been a journalist for 50 years and is an ordained minister. Those wishing to receive his daily devotional/Bible study notes may sign up by texting 601-938-2471 and asking to be added to either the morning or afternoon list. He can be reached by e-mail at starsportsboss@yahoo.com.