Draw Your Sword

 (Photo credit: windsordi)

When Glen and I were first married, he brought home a some books for us written by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.  We both enjoyed reading these fantasy stories of hobbits, dwarves, elves and men. 

For most of these creatures a sword was a very important thing.  Aragorn, as rightful heir to the thrones of Arnor and Gondor, of course wielded the most powerful sword, but even little Frodo Baggins had a hobbit-sized sword, a dagger actually, that glowed blue in the presence of Orcs. 

There are important things to remember about swords.  You must actually have it with you for it to be useful, and you must unsheathe it at the appropriate time.  The same can be said for the "sword" we as Christians have been given.

According to the author of the book of Hebrews, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart," (Hebrews 4:12.)

Just as the characters in our much-beloved fantasy story, we should keep our sharp sword near us at all times.  Better yet, let us say like David, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee," (Psalm 119:11.)  The more Scripture we have hidden in our hearts and our minds, the more we have ready for any moment, for any "battle" we may face along the road.

We must also avail ourselves of our swords at the appropriate times.   The Bible tells us that we will never be tempted "above that ye are able but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it," (1 Corinthians 10:13.)  This makes me think of the temptation of the Lord Jesus in the wilderness.  How did He escape these temptations? Three times the Lord Jesus spoke to Satan and said "It is written," and quoted Scripture.  When we have the Word of God hidden in our hearts, when we have it in our minds, or even if we have it nearby, we can use those words as that "way to escape" in the time of temptation.

Those words can also be a source of comfort in time of pain and suffering.  They can be a source of light in times of darkness and decision.  They can be encouragement when disheartened.  They are for "doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," (2 Timothy 3:16.)

Let us use our swords often and wisely, knowing that this tool, this great gift, has been given to us by our Lord to enable us to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in Thy word."

Psalm 119:14