For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:12-13
I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 4:12-13 - the author pivots from an exhortation to seek God's rest - lest you fall into disobedience (v11) - to a reminder that while we may think we are not disobedient, we should be very careful to both understand our fallen nature and a holy, able and perfect God who sees everything. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Because the Word is God (John 1:1), we should see God as living and active (v12). God (and the Word) is also all knowing/omniscient - He is able to discern thoughts and intentions (v12) - and our thoughts and intentions often drive us into sin even though we may feel as if we don't sin (Matthew 5:21-22, 28, and 1 John 3:15). The Word also exposes sin - see Romans 7:7. He will hold us accountable either in this life but certainly upon death.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: All sin and all short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). We often deceive ourselves that we don't sin (1 John 1:8), because we believe we can hide sin (v13) - yet this is this foolish as God sees it all....including sins of commission and those of omission!
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid any claim to be without sin! Claim the promise that God not only forgives, but He also saves and sanctifies us - giving us victory over sin and death. Follow the example of Paul (Romans 7) who recognized his struggle with sin and this drove him into the arms of Christ. Repent and be saved!
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - thank You Jesus! I know the need for Jesus and I am grateful for my salvation and the mercies that never cease and are new every morning. I am not deserving. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
