There are some very important things that we have a tendency to devalue. Sadly, one of those things is the Word of God. While this may be predictable in regard to the infidels of our society today, it should never be the case with those of us who make up God’s elect. The Word of God should and must be the focal point of our lives. It is the most important possession that we have, as well as the most valuable.
God’s Word has creating power. The Hebrew writer said, “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God…” (Hebrews 11:3). But that is not the extent of the Word’s power. It also has the power to enormously affect our lives in a very positive fashion. Notice with me just why the Word of God is so powerful.
It Has the Power to Enlighten
How does man know from where he came? God’s Word! How does man know where he is going, that is, what takes place after death? God’s Word! How does man know what pleases God, as well as what displeases God? Again the answer is the Word of God. The Bible has the answers to the most complex questions of life. It is, as the Psalmist once said, “a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path” (Psalms 119:105).
It Has the Power to Save
We all recognize that it is Jesus who saves. But information about that salvation comes to us through the Word. From this standpoint the Word of God saves. “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:21). Notice that James says that the Word is “able” to save. It is not the case that everyone in the world is going to be saved because the Word has been revealed. We must be doers of the Word if we are to be saved by it (James 1:22-25).
It Has the Power to Protect
The Word of God has the power to protect us and keep us secure. It defends us against the assaults of Satan, for it is our weapon in warfare. Paul called it the “sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17). It also protects us against sin. If we plant the Word in our hearts and minds, it will help us refrain from sinning. David said, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalms 119:11).
It Has the Power to Transform
The people of Thessalonica turned from serving idols to serving the living God (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Three thousand Jews on the day of Pentecost turned from hating Christ to being followers of Christ (Acts 2:36-42). From the first century to this very hour, many have turned from a life of vice and immorality to one of purity and righteousness because they have tasted the transforming power of the word of God. And God is still transforming us through His word. He continues to make us better, more spiritual, more like His Son, by the power of His word (Ephesians 2:10). Nothing has more power to completely change a person from the inside out than God’s precious word.
Yes, the Word of God is indeed very powerful, and we should all be about the business of studying and familiarizing ourselves with it.