Swords were carried on the right side of a soldier, hanging either from his belt or a specially designed strap. The only offensive weapon of this armor, the sword also served as a warning to the enemy when waved in the air. This piece of armor is the Word of God, and in order to be most effective, it must be used through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The other day, I was counseling one of my daughters out of the sadness that comes when we are faced with our sin. She knew she messed up. She confessed. And still, she was devastated. She couldn’t stop crying and didn’t want to talk about it or do anything but feel the pain of her mistake.
Have you ever reacted that way to sin? Witnessing it in my child reminded me of what I used to do when I failed. When I was a new Christian, still not understanding that my own goodness wouldn’t get me anywhere, I would do the exact same thing.
I would cry and hide and run from the forgiveness God wanted to give me. Reading God’s Word made me feel guilty and exposed, not comforted or joyful. I didn’t feel capable of “seek[ing] Him with all [my] heart” (Psalm 119:2) because I thought seeking Him would remind me of what a screw-up I was.
I would see verses like Psalm 119:71, and I would think, No thank you! Affliction sounds terrible. I just want to be good already!
But God’s Spirit helped me see, through His Word and people who had studied it longer than I had, that His goodness is the goodness I can cling to and count on. That His Word is a gift, even when it reminds me of how I fall short, especially when it reminds me of how I fall short.
The afflictions God allows into our lives, even the ones we cause, in our sin, are made beautiful in light of His forgiveness, in light of His closeness. God’s Word reminds us that we’re not the good ones. God’s Word tells our hearts we’re so loved by the good One! We are already at peace with Him, in Jesus Christ, so we can have peace right now and forever!
I told my daughter some form of this the other day. I encouraged her to walk away from ruminating and regretting, and to focus on the forgiveness and grace that comes when we repent in hope and step into the light instead. It’s then that we learn to love His statutes and delight in His commands. It’s then we experience beautiful satisfaction on the other side of affliction.
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46 thoughts on "The Sword of the Spirit"
Our sins and afflictions are made beautiful in the light of his forgiveness.
Hallelujah the God who loves us so he gave his life so we may live!
I do not have to make myself righteousness and I am not saved because of my hood but through him only.
Wow on one hand the Word tells us His love and goodness, and on the other hand pierces and convicts our hearts. Much double-edged indeed.
Also love this reminder: “…walk away from ruminating and regretting, and to focus on the forgiveness and grace that comes when we repent in hope and step into the light instead. It’s then that we learn to love His statutes and delight in His commands. It’s then we experience beautiful satisfaction on the other side of affliction.”
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love this
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So good. So gracious. I love the sword imagery. I recently bought an ornamental dagger from a medieval store and I thought of how the sword of the spirit should hang at my side at all times.
Beautiful! ✝️❤️
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Amen ❤️
I have been writing out the book of John. It helps me to remember and to think upon what I am reading while I am writing it out. The Sword is so powerful; on the otherside is what our tongue speaks. So be careful with what you say as it represents our Lord and Saviour!
Kat I echo this for Tash. ❤️ Wise words of the truth.
Thank you, Mercy!! I bet that was hard, watching your baby have it! My babies are 12 and 17, and it is very hard to watch them suffering! You are 100% right…this too shall pass! ❤️❤️
Jennifer, thank you!! Both of my daughters are positive, too, so we are taking care of each other! ❤️
Tash, We are all beautiful children of God – made and blessed by God. We are to show love to all, not to judge who is and isn’t worthy of that love. Let God do His job and let us do ours. Prayers for those needing our love the most.
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I love this SRT! Working on every book, podcast, etc.
Thank y’all for a fresh gospel in your art, your words etc. Im 72 but I feel your age!
Thank you
Kristie Paradis, I am praying for your healing and strength. I had Covid in January and the coughing and pure exhaustion were the hardest parts. I hope you have people taking care of you. ❤️
Since the word of God is our sword against the attacks of the evil one, I pray I would plant his words on my heart. I want to know his word, so that I can meditate throw it back at the devil when he attacks me.
I am not really one to ruminate. I try to make the best decision I can at the time, with the knowledge I have at that time. I know that in Christ there is no condemnation. I do my best to rest in that. If my mind goes down a negative rabbit hole, I think about all the times I’ve seen God’s hands at work and how true to His Word He’s always been. The sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God is the only offensive weapon mentioned. It should always be in hand, as well as in my mind and on my lips. I can wield it when in battle or I can simply carry it, confident that the Word ensures victory.
I have never held a real sharp sword before. My husband does have a collectible Japanese sword that is long and semi sharp. I held it once and felt powerful (like a ninja lol). Sword is a dangerous weapon. Thank you Angie and Kelly for posting HRT that weapons can hurt and needs to be handled with care. The word of God if used incorrectly can hurt and bleed others dramatically. Someone i knew who was in prison ministry, she witnessed a pastor preached shame and condemnation to the prisoners and she was filled with anger and she stood up and preached God is love and no sin is too large for His forgiveness. The word of God if preached wrongly, without love, is just a bunch of noise, like a gong. The intention behind it must be love, love for the lost, love for the hurt, love for those who already feel shame. May love (GOD) is our motive and behind the scene force for us to further His kingdom.
Praying for you Taylor (may your heart be comforted) and Kristie (speedy healing over covid, we also just recovered from covid as well, including our newborn baby, was horrible to watch little kids suffer, i am still coughing a bit still, 5 weeks already, ugh such wicked disease. It too shall pass). To God be the glory now and forever.
Thank you Scarlett for sharing the story of your daughter’s “sweet suffering”, and reminding Shes of every age to stop running & hiding from whatever guilt & shame that haunt us. Jesus knows our hearts, the broken & the beautiful. He never leaves us in the muck or mess. Yet, yet, yet…I can do a deep dive into “My 3D”: Doubt, Despair, Depression. And struggle mightily to resurface. Because I believe – falsely – the struggle is mine alone. And I deserve to cower in recriminations. Heavenly Father, reassure me of the rest & redemption found in you. But first, remind me to “buckle up” in the safety of your Word. And reciting verses from Psalm 119 all the while. Thanks be to God.
I’m wrestling with a decision that some friends have made regarding their transgender daughter. I’m so thankful for God’s word and it’s absolute truth. It’s hard when you see believers making decisions that seem to go against His word. I’d appreciate prayer for discernment.
Sarah D, thank you so much for sharing! I just listened to the Harris Creek podcast, and it was excellent!! One point I took away that really hit me was the fact that we need to pray, pray, and pray some more!! We can have all the armor of God in place, but if we aren’t praying fervently and without ceasing, we are not battle ready!! Eph. 6:18 begins “Pray at all times in the Spirit…” The pastor on the podcast said it simply, if you are not praying, you have only 2 possible options: 1.) you lose against the enemy, or 2.) you’re not even in the game, meaning the enemy is not threatened by you, so he leaves you alone. Neither of those options are good!! Prayer is so important in the life of a believer, and I know I need to do more of it every day!! Again, thank you for sharing! It definitely had a huge impact on me…a great addition to this Bible study! Ladies, if you haven’t looked the podcast up and listened, I highly recommend you do so…you will be glad you did!
17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. – Ephesians 6:17-20.
What a morning. What a mess I was when I started reading. The devotional topic I was to lead yesterday was changed at the last moment and frankly I made a mess of the new assignment. I’ve been beating myself up about it for the last 24 hours. Needed the gentle reminder and encouragement found in today’s devotional thoughts. Grateful for a community that gets me out of my negative head space.
B. Bee, lifting you up in prayer now!
You encouraged me, Taylor! That you were able to feel God’s peace in the midst of your suffering, that you brought forth the sword, God’s Word, during what I’m sure was a very difficult moment for you…this is very encouraging indeed! It’s all about His timing! He will bring you what/who you need. Continue to wear His armor, so you are prepared to fight the attacks that will continue to come! Praying for you! ❤️
Beverly, thank you so much!! ❤️❤️
Kristie, prayers are coming to you that you get healing soon, very soon! Keep us updated on your progress. God bless you and heal you. ❤️ Isaiah 53:5 AMPC
Manna for the soul! Thank you! ❤️
You might want to check out the Ozark Folk Center, While in Mountain View.
Love this study. I read, pray for you all but don’t comment much. Will you all pray for me and some anxiety I am having about some new neighbors. Thanks!
This morning I wake in Mountain View, Arkansas. On a much needed retreat with Brett, I am sitting on the back deck of a treehouse cabin he rented for us. Reading God’s word about the sword of the spirit, his word, while the morning light dawns. I hear the sound of birds closer than usual, sitting high near the treetops like in a nest with them. Just as the birds proclaim the morning is here, so I realize taking a sword of the spirit, God’s word, and using my voice to proclaim his truth, I am a truth bearer, announcing the victory of Jesus is also here. Right now, today there is victory. The enemy is vanquished by the sword of the spirit, “it is written” (-Jesus, Matt. 4:4,7,10). Jesus answered with a simple and powerful truth. The word must be rightly handled, just as a soldier trains with a sword. A deadly weapon I must be trained to handle. The word is a treasure house of wisdom and an arsenal, a weapon of spiritual warfare. It slices deep into the heart and conscience. It overcomes evil. The word kills and gives life. Both/and. God has given me this weapon to wield. To bring light and love where there is darkness, clarity to confusion, peace to chaos, protection from the evil one. The devil will twist the word just as he did in Matthew 4:6. Father, help me to discern your truth. Help me use it to bring life and justice, mercy where needed, and protection when necessary. Strengthen me as I stand and equip me for every good work, and every season, ready for any trial. “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might, (Ephesians 6:10). Until… Maranatha.
I am seeking your prayers, sisters! On Tuesday, I tested positive for Covid. I had come through the whole pandemic without contracting it, and now I have it! The past 3 days have been brutal to say the least…I can’t remember a time I have felt this horribly sick. All I have been doing is sleeping on and off and coughing my head off! I got behind in this study, unfortunately, but I have been awake enough this morning to do some much needed reading in God’s Word!! I’m so thankful for this study! Prayers are needed and truly appreciated! ❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing your story Taylor. His Word truly is alive and can comfort our souls. You have the perfect husband in Him. Have a wonderful day, she’s and hold your swords high. ❤️
God’s Word is a gift even/especially when it reminds me how I fall short because it deepens my dependence on Him for His grace, His mercy, His righteousness, His forgiveness. I also reflected on using God’s Word to counter the attacks of the enemy on our minds. When I was dumped on Monday I went to bed crying with racing thoughts that I will never find a husband, I’ll be alone forever, etc. Then I was reminded of Psalm 23 and started praying Psalm 23:1 over myself “The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing/I shall not want.” I started to feel peace and was able to fall asleep and I feel like that’s a very real and recent example of using God’s Word as our sword to fight the attacks of the enemy. I hope that encourages someone today <3
Good morning everyone!! Loving this study, love the reminders to remember the armor of God to fight the enemy with. I watched this message yesterday by one of my favorite pastors, Pastor JP. It went along perfectly with our study, definitely recommend listening or watching, you can also listen on the Harris Creek podcast, the message is called Battle Ready. Love you all! Almost the weekend.
Good morning everyone!! Loving this study, love the reminders to remember the armor of God to fight the enemy with. I watched this message yesterday by one of my favorite pastors, Pastor JP. It went along perfectly with our study, definitely recommend listening or watching, you can also listen on the Harris Creek podcast, https://youtu.be/amZb-SMWoDg
Love you all! Almost the weekend.
Oh Lord thank you! Amen
I love how the word of God is “living”. It is active, alive. It speaks to me. I am so grateful for the truth in it! I am amazed by the power it has and it’s beauty is beyond compare. Thank you for the gift of your word, Father!
From the description of the sword that begins the devotional:
“the sword also served as a warning to the enemy when waved in the air,”
I find myself praising God for His guidance and direction found in His Word.
God’s Word warns against what can appear harmless at first but ends in subtle-destruction.
His Word commands against what would try to push its way onto the throne of our heart, a throne that belongs to One alone.
And God’s Word, our sword, can lance through festering, puss-filled wounds, cleansing, healing, and bringing restoration.
Then from HRT: “God’s Word used as an apparatus to exercise authority as a means of justifying one’s own rightness is an abuse of a precious gift. God’s Word used as a weapon is dangerous and harmful…As such, we must not use the Word of God to harm other people. Rather, we must be clear about who the real enemy is. It is in terms of the spiritual realm that we are to use God’s Word as a means of cutting down the forces of evil waging war against our souls.”
God’s Word is to be used as a weapon against the enemy of our souls. The Truth of God’s Word is where the victory is found. When “flesh and blood-filled” wounded draw near, may the Holy Spirit guide us in the use of our Sword toward healing and wholeness found only in Jesus.
Thank You, Lord God, for the Sword of your Word and the Holy Spirit guidance that directs the blade. Open my heart and mind to draw ever closer to You. Strengthen the Sword in my hand with power, or mercy and grace, as needed. Amen.
God’s Word is a gift; a means of grace so that we may understand who He is and who we are.
From HRT “we must not use the Word of God to harm other people. Rather, we must be clear about who the real enemy is. It is in terms of the spiritual realm that we are to use God’s Word as a means of cutting down the forces of evil waging war against our souls.
Hebrews 4:12 asserts that “the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword,” which, to use a common phrase, suggests that Scripture “cuts both ways.” When swung in the wrong direction—for the purpose of selfish ambition or a lust for power—something designed to be life-giving, edifying, instructive, and beautiful becomes an instrument of darkness. If God indeed is our strength and His Word is our sword against the spiritual forces of evil that stand against us, we must know our own strength and wield it with great care.”
I’m up right now when I should be sleeping. I’m up because of something that happened. What wonderful advice when we have regrets from Scarlet: I encouraged her to walk away from ruminating and regretting, and to focus on the forgiveness and grace that comes when we repent in hope and step into the light instead. It’s then that we learn to love His statutes and delight in His commands. It’s then we experience beautiful satisfaction on the other side of affliction.