By Julian Wells

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 NIV)

God’s Word is a mirror to hold up against our lives and examine how closely our thoughts and attitudes reflect the heart of God. As we do so, his Spirit convicts us where we fall short and like a skilled surgeon, he begins to cut away those aspects of our character that are un-Christlike.

This will only happen when we take time to prayerfully and expectantly digest the Scriptures and incline our hearts to respond. 

But all too often we use God’s Word as a magnifying glass through which we judge everyone around us instead. And that rarely leads to anything that glorifies God or advances his kingdom. 

2 Timothy 2:23-24 wisely counsels us, “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” (NIV)

In this day when social media impacts so many of our relationships, we would all be wise to heed Paul’s advice. (Especially around election season!)

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (Colossians 4:6 NIV)