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Hebrews 4:12, For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. 

This chapter begins with a discussion about entering God’s rest.  Moses and Joshua tried to lead the Israelites into God’s rest but the people disobeyed and did not receive it.  But Jesus is superior to both Moses and Joshua because he provides a better way to receive God’s rest. What is meant here by rest is the experience of salvation and dependence on God, rather than on one’s own works.  Christians are born again when they say yes to the free gift of grace.  It’s not about anything we do but rather who we trust.  Jesus has provided the way to receive this wonderful rest.  As one matures in faith, rest might be thought of as unbroken fellowship with God.  As I read this, I can’t help but be reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”  I don’t know about you, but I can use this kind of rest! 

Our focus verse for today is probably one that is familiar to many of us.  But what does the focus verse have to do with rest?  Because God’s Word is alive and powerful, those who listen to it can receive God’s rest.  The Word of God gives us everything we need to know about receiving salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.  It provides all we need to know about being in fellowship with God.  The Bible is a living book to those who believe in Jesus.  It provides the means to learn about God but also the way to get to know God.  We meet Jesus Christ on the pages of Scripture! 

Because the Word of God is active, alive, and powerful, it also has the ability to penetrate deep within our soul.  It’s like a sharp scalpel, with the ability to cut out the cancerous parts of our lives so we can be healed and whole.  As we read God’s Word, our own thoughts, desires, temptations, and sins, come to light.  The Holy Spirit convicts us of them, and points us toward Jesus. How often have you been reading Scripture and you just knew that you needed to make some adjustments in your own heart and life?

Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, Thank you for your Word, which provides everything we need for your rest.  How we desire your rest, Lord!  We love you, Jesus, and we need you.  Give us discernment in those areas in our lives that need adjustment.  Point us back toward you.  More of you and less of me.  In Your Name, Amen.