The Word of God

I Thess. 2:13

And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the Word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the Word of God, which is at work in you believers.

 

Paul had exhorted and encouraged them in fatherly manner to walk worthy of God who had called them into His kingdom and glory. Since they were called and chosen by God, as well as encouraged and exhorted by Paul, it was up to them to respond. How would they receive the call? Stony ground, thorny ground, or fertile soil? Thanking God, Paul offered praise because they knew and understood that the Word they had received was the Word of God not Paul's opinion in any way shape or form. It was this powerful Word that is able to transform hearts and lives. It was this powerful Word that gives the strength, power, and grace to believers so that they might walk worthy of God.

 

I wonder how many believers in America consider the Bible the very words of God? If they had  accepted it as what it really is, would it be collecting dust on so many shelves? Is there a crucial difference in saying the Bible is the Word of God and believing it to the degree that it is life-changing? Verbal assent is often insincere. What really matters is what is visible in the life! I truly know and believe that the Bible is the very Word of God. I hope and pray that it is visible in my life.

 

Father,

I pray for Christians in America that they would see and believe that the Bible is the very Word of God. Help me to continue to grow increasingly more dependent on it so that it becomes my very breath and life.

In the Name that is above all others,

Amen