Sword of the Spirit

Much like the Shield of Salvation, the Sword of the Spirit depends on us welding it. And it is the same thing as the Shield. It is the Word of God. It is both defensive AND offensive. We can use it to protect, deflect and attack. Bob, the author of the book of Hebrews (an inside joke. If you want to be in on it, just ask!) Says it this way: For the word of God is alive 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.

A double-edged sword can parry, thrust, slice fore-and-back hand. It can deflect, protect and attack. If used in the hands of someone who has taken the time to learn how to use it, it is a weapon that is formidable in the very least. It is the word of the Most High God. It is what Christ will use to defeat the nations. And it is also what Christ used in the Wilderness to defeat Satan, and to show us how effective it is.

Luke records it in the 4th chapter of his Gospel. Jesus, his physical, emotional and mental human facilities at an ebb-40 days without food-is confronted by Satan. He offers our Lord power, glory, food. Something that he could never have offered to Christ in His glory, but in human form that He chose, was subject to these-the same desires and temptations we face. But instead of running and hiding, Jesus faced Satan and all three times responded by relying on scripture. We cannot defeat Satan on our own, even the angel sent to talk with Daniel needed help against one of Satan’s own ‘Princes’. We have that same help! We have the same sword Jesus did in the wilderness. We have the Holy Word of God. His true and inspired word given to us. All scripture, Paul says is beneficial. Old and New Testament. They are truly the Sword of God, His Holy Word.

Scripture:

Ephesians 6:17

Luke 4:1-13

Daniel 10:12

Revelation 19:15

Hebrews 4:12

Prayer: Father, give me a thirst for Your word. Help me to establish the discipline I need to stay in it, to study it, to learn it so that I might use it as a protection both for myself and my family. You and You alone can withstand everything that comes at me, and I need to get Your word stamped in my heart, on my mind.