Articles
The Word's Work
“For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe” (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Paul says the word works in believers. What does it do?
It informs. “That by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief. By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ” (Ephesians 3:3-4).
It transforms. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
It instructs. “Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come” (1 Corinthians 10:11).
It gives wisdom. “And that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).
It corrects. “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).
It cleanses. “. . . Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word” (Ephesians 5:26-27).
It encourages. “For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:5).
It strengthens. “And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32).
It protects. “Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11).
God’s word is powerful indeed. Yet it can do none of these things if we don’t take the time to read it and meditate on it. In this coming year, make it a priority to spend some time in your Bible each day. Let the word work in you.
