God’s WordShembull

God’s Word discerns our intentions

The Bible is not just a lifeless book. It is breathed out by the Holy Spirit, and this same Spirit gives it power. Hebrews 4 calls it “living and active”.

One of the things this living Word does is to discern our deepest intentions and thoughts. We can hide many of our sins and weaknesses from other people. Maybe we are even fooling ourselves. But we can’t fool God. His Word reveals what is in our hearts.

If we read the Bible, it will function as a mirror. It confronts us with our sins and weaknesses and shows us who we are. That can be painful, but it is also healing. For once we see how desperate our situation is, we may confess our sins to God. He is very willing to forgive. That’s why David sings: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Psalm 139:23-24)