The Penetrating Word of God
Lately when I listen to the news, I don’t seem to be hearing anything “of good report.” (Phil. 4:8b) World and national news is full of turmoil and unrest, political news seems hopeless, and local, more intimate news from family and friends seems to be of sickness and loss. Yet this morning when I heard of a tragic sudden death right before Christmas, I was quickly reminded of Philippians 4: 4-9,13
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you… 13 I can do all things through Christ[b] who strengthens me.
I guess sometimes there just aren’t any words, but I am so very thankful for God’s word. The answers are always there, no matter what.
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
My personal challenge for today is to meditate on the above passages…read them, speak them, let them penetrate my very being. I challenge you to do the same. How will you devote today?