Our Whole Armor, 7of9

~ Sword Of The Spirit ~

“And take … the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). 

This is the Christian soldier’s primary offensive weapon—not the only offensive weapon, as we have previously seen.  The Word of God is your sword.  How well do you know the written Word of God?  “The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). 

Once again we should model the behavior of our Savior.  When Satan tempted the Messiah three times in the desert, He replied each time by quoting the written Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11).  While we know Satan’s tactics are continual, we also know that the Word of God has not changed; therefore, we have confidence that the Word of God will provide victory over the temptations of Satan.  Read the Scriptures, ingest the Scriptures, study the Scriptures, memorize the Scriptures, understand the principles of Scripture, internalize the Word, and you will be prepared for Christian warfare.  All of God’s Word is truth (Psalm 119:60 and John 17:17).  There is no power on earth, or in the universe which can successfully stand against the Word of God.  

It is called the “Sword of the Spirit” because the Word of God does not penetrate without the Spirit of God at work.  It is the indwelling Spirit living within the individual Christian that brings to mind the appropriate passage of Scripture.  It is the Spirit that guides the Christian who is in communion with God.  Without the power of the Spirit of God we can do nothing—but He uses our knowledge of the Word of God to lead our response and attacks on the enemy.  Sometimes He gives clear and loud directions, but other times He uses His “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12 nkjv) or “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:12, niv) to guide us. 

don’t miss this  ~  (1) The weapon used by Christ against the temptations of Satan was the written Word of God.  What a great blessing we have at our disposal, the same weapon which the Messiah used against Satan!   Our primary offensive weapon is the Word of God.  How well do know the “Written Word of God”? 

(2)  Soldiers of that era had two swords attached to their belt of truth—both were offensive weapons.  There is a tendency to think of a large sword, but they also carried a small dagger-like sword which was often the critical difference in battle.  Both swords were vital for success in close combat.  Both were readily available, ready for use at all times.  Jesus Christ is the living Word (John 1:1-4, 14).  Our knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Spirit of God within us is vital for spiritual success in spiritual battles.  How well do you know the “Living Word of God”? 

additional comment:   A previous Abundant Life Now post was directly related to the heart of America (“Follow Me” posted on June 29, 2010).

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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