The church of Jesus Christ is under attack; we would be extremely foolish to deny that. One attack shouts that we aren’t doing enough social good, that we should get moving, spend our time and money to eliminate poverty and need. Another attack tells us to shut up, sit down and stay out of their business.
Perhaps the greatest attack, however, is the one that is seeking to silence the truths found in the Word of God. I can understand why. “For the word of God is living 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. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” [Heb 4:12-13 NIV]
That’s a scary concept if you aren’t living according to the Word. No wonder people want to silence God’s Word.
Every day I fail to live up to the Word of God. Still, by the power of God’s Spirit in me, I seek to know and honor it. I don’t want anything in me that dishonors God, so I ask God to show me my heart’s thoughts and attitudes, uncover and expose anything that hinders God’s Presence in my life so that I might repent and receive forgiveness and experience His Fullness.
Do I always like this process? No, but I’ve been called to live up to and testify to the Word of God, not re-write or edit it because its truths hurt. Paul reminded Timothy to testify about our Lord Jesus Christ. His words are a good reminder for us also. “Do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life-not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” [2 Tim 1:8-9 NIV]
