Summer of Depth Devotional Day 54
Today is Day 54 of our Summer of Depth Devotional and Reading Plan.
Most of the time when we open the Bible, we think we're the ones doing the reading.
We examine the words. We ask what they mean. We look for something to learn or apply. But Hebrews gives us a different picture. Sometimes, while we're reading God's Word, God's Word is reading us.
Let's chew on that together…and dive deep into His Word right now.
Before anything else, slow down and read: Hebrews 4:12-13.
The writer of Hebrews describes God's Word as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.” It reaches beneath the surface and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
That's a little uncomfortable.
Because most of us are pretty good at explaining ourselves to ourselves. We know how to justify an attitude, minimize a habit, blame someone else, or avoid looking too closely at something happening inside of us.
Scripture has a way of getting underneath all of that.
You may open the Bible expecting to read about forgiveness and suddenly realize you're carrying bitterness toward someone. You may read Jesus' words about generosity and discover how tightly you're holding your money. You may read about trusting God and recognize how much fear has been driving your decisions.
That's part of what it means for God's Word to be alive. We don't simply come to Scripture asking, “What does this passage say?” We also allow God to ask, “What does this reveal about you?”
And that doesn't have to be something we're afraid of. Verse 13 says that we are fully known by God. Nothing is hidden from Him. So when Scripture exposes something in us, we're not giving God new information. We're allowing Him into something He already sees.
Maybe that's a posture worth practicing as we Eat This Book. Come honestly. Leave the defenses down. And give God's Word permission to search places you might normally avoid.
Prayer:
God, as I read Your Word, help me come with an open heart. Show me what's really happening inside of me. Reveal what needs Your healing, correction, or grace, and give me the courage to respond when You speak. Amen.
