Never Underestimate the Word

It is a mistake to underestimate the power of the written Word of God.  Too many times the Word is read in a hurried or lackadaisical manner during our worship gatherings.  We sometimes forget what we are holding in our hands as well as what we are reading.  What we are reading is not just words from a book.  Reading it is about more than just satisfying the requirements of the liturgy.  It is like a burning fire.  It is like a wind that touches and stirs everything in its path.  It is the energy of a waterfall cascading into the stream waiting below. It is a power that revolutionizes everything and everyone in its path.   

The Apostle Paul declared it to be the inspired Word of God (II Timothy 3:16) which means it has within it the very breath of God.  The writer of Hebrews wrote, "the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword...(Hebrews 4:12).  Here is a reminder that the Word of God is not some passive word that puts people to sleep, but a Word which is both piercing and cutting.  Finally, there is that Word in Romans which should cause any who read it to tremble in fear at the thought of reading it casually.  "For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith..."  (Romans 1:16.  

Let anyone who dares to read the Word to others consider what it means to read and ponder such words of power.  Let anyone who reads hold the Book of all Books up high before the gathered people that they might behold this book of fire.  Let anyone who reads its holy words know that it is a a Word which speak of authority.  Let anyone who reads the Word remember the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The grass withers, the flower fades; but the Word of God will stand forever."  (Isaiah 40:8).