Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Authenticity of the Word of God

Hebrews 4:12-16

 Vs.15: "... but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet he did not sin"

The Bible is a record of how God revealed himself to mankind over thousands of years. It tells us how God dealt with people based on their attitude towards God and His Commandments. It guides us in ways we are supposed to conduct ourselves in this life on earth. It reveals to us how our actions might be a blessing to others and even gives each one of us a larger purpose in life. Bible is not just a record of just the triumphs in lives of people chosen by God but also of their falls. We live in a world trying to understand the invisible God through our physical senses; where knowledge is considered power and the wisdom to use that knowledge seems irrelevant.

1. Double-edged sword: The Word of God is supposed to first influence the one who reads it. It is a self-reflective journey of first looking at our own limitations and sin, overcoming it and thus helping others to overcome their challenges and the sin that has engulfed their lives. But most of us use the Word of God to find fault in others. St. Luke 18:9-14 describes the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector and their prayer - one being completely self-righteous and the other seeking forgiveness of sins. Verse 14 states "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” But we must not project a false humility to be exalted. The power of the Word of God comes by looking at our own transgressions and correcting it.

2. Nothing is hidden from God: Most of us are not concerned of being counted worthy in the eyes of God but are more bothered about what people around us would think. While this thought might stop us from doing wrong, as long as we can hide our wrong doings from the world, we feel comfortable continuing it. A wisdom quote even says - we can fool some people all the time or all the people for some time, we cannot fool all the people all the time. All our thoughts and actions might be hidden to the world but not to God. Living a life away from sin and being righteous in the eyes of God gifts us freedom and peace. Yet temporal pleasures are more of a priority than the eternal life.

Jesus, having lived on earth was subject to all the temptations that a man could face, yet through a life of prayer and submission to the will of God, he showed us the example of living a sinless life. To be like Jesus must become the focus of our Christian journey and we need to inspire others to be disciples of Christ. It is challenging yet God will shower His mercy upon us if we desire it and pray for it.

Prayer

Lord, help us overcome the temptation to be self-righteous and give us the grace to become more like you every day of our life. Amen


Thought of the Day
 “Taste and see how good the Lord is! The one who takes refuge in him is truly happy!” Psalm 34:8

Dr. Elizabeth Jacob
The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island


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