When you grasp the Sword of the Spirit, you have life and power in your hands. The Word of God is spirit and eternal life. God’s Word at the beginning, “Let there be light,” brought forth creation. The words of Jesus, “It is finished,” secured our salvation. Paul tells us the word of God is the sword of the Spirit. When we have the word of God implanted within us, allowing the Spirit to use it, we will be more than conquerors through the Spirit’s sword.
The Spirit’s Sword Implanted Within Us
“Let the word of God dwell in you richly,” Paul told the Philippians. Then from James we read, “Receive the implanted word of God with meekness, for it is able to save your souls.” The Psalmist also tells us he hid God’s word in his heart so he wouldn’t sin against God. He said it was a lamp for his feet. In the Proverbs we read there is life and health in the words of God. From all these words, we learn that not only do we hear the word, but we allow it to work within us. We become doers of it. Consider how Jesus was the Word of God. As a child when reunited with his anxious parents he asked, “Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s business?” Later, as a man He said, “I must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day…” He not only heard the word but He also did the word. We must hear and receive the word, letting it take root and grow so it can crowd out the lies of the enemy.
Allowing The Spirit to Use It
The Word of God has a mission. It does not return to God empty. The Word of God accomplishes the purpose He has for it. It creates life. The Word of God comforts and gives joy. By it, we find hope. Healing occurs. It reveals the hidden secrets of the heart and judges sin. Paul told Timothy it was good for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness so that the man (or woman) of God will be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. The writer to the Hebrews tells us it is alive, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. This sword works within, piercing even to dividing the soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It discerns what is in the heart. God sees all. He requires an accounting. The Holy Spirit within us guides and directs, gives life and power to the words. Therefore, allow the Spirit to use it.
More Than Conquerors Through the Spirit’s Sword
A powerful example of a conqueror wielding the sword comes to us at the temptation of Jesus in Luke 4. With each temptation Jesus answered with a word of God. Even when the tempter who also knows the word of God, used it against Him, Jesus being all wise saw the deceit. Jesus was the Word of God. It was implanted in His heart. Even from childhood He loved the scriptures and studied them. He lived them. He spoke truth. His word forgave sins and healed the sick. With His word, He raised the dead. The resurrected Christ goes out conquering and to conquer. Such is the Word of God.
As believers, we have the sword of the Spirit. We have the Word of God in Christ Jesus dwelling within us. Read the written word inspired by the Holy Spirit, study it, ask for understanding, memorize it, let it speak into the situations of your life. Allow it to bring healing and hope. Use it in prayer for others. Use it wisely. “Rightly divide the word” Paul told Timothy. When we have the word of God implanted within us, and are allowing the Spirit to use it, we will be more than conquerors through the Spirit’s sword. Teach us Dear Jesus to use our swords in these our times.