Ephesians 6:17 ".....and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God."

For one year, I worked closely with an individual who had the ability to diffuse situations, solve problems, or provide comfort by spouting wise sayings once uttered by her parents or grandparents. I would often shake my head in amazement as she would automatically retrieve these words from the deep recesses of her mind at a moment's notice. How did she do this?

I believe that she was able to do so because she was raised in an environment in which her family understood the importance of equipping their children with WORDS of wisdom. Her grandparents and parents realized that these WORDS would carry their loved ones through life's tough times - these words would become a huge part of their heritage.

Today's scripture compares God's Word to a SWORD. Interestingly, there are two Greek words used in the Bible for the Word of God. The first is "Logos," and the second one is "Rhema." One source explains the difference in the following way: Logos refers to the entire Bible from cover to cover while Rhema is often described as a "now" word - for example, God may bring a particular scripture to your mind that applies to your immediate situation.

In Ephesians 6:17, the meaning of the WORD of God is Rhema. Just as my co-worker was able to draw upon the wise sayings of her family members in difficult times, we are able to recall to mind by the Holy Spirit particular scriptures in answer to the attacks of the devil when he attempts to discourage us, deceive us, tempt us, confuse us.

Jesus provided an excellent model of the expert usage of the Sword of the Spirit against the wiles of Satan in Matthew 4:4 "......Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."

My challenge to you is to become proficient in the utilization of the Sword of the Spirit in your life. The more you read and study your Bible, the more God can use this mighty sword in your life. If you rarely spend time in your Bible, you will have limited defense against the troubles that you may face!

Dear Lord, Thank You for the times that You have brought Your RHEMA (specific word) to mind when I have found myself in need of Your power. I ask that You help me to refine my skills in the use of Your Sword ... Your WORD.

I also thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.

Reflection:  Are you proficient in wielding Your Mighty Weapon, God's Word, in your life especially in your times of distress?