Be Doers of the Word, Not Merely Hearers: The Word of God Works to Transform Our Hearts and Actions

True joy is found in not merely hearing the Word of God but doing it. Head knowledge often puffs up making us prideful. But Truth applied makes one wise as all Scripture is God breathed and profitable, thoroughly equipping us for every good work. God desires applied Truth so that we may shine His light in this dark world – a world that so desperately needs Truth seen – not merely espoused - rather fleshed out. God delights to see His saints living it, just as Jesus did. Remember He was the Word made flesh dwelling among us. The best witness for Jesus is a changed life – one that seeks to walk as Jesus did. Indeed, Scripture tell us in 1 John 2:5-6 (NIV): “But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.”

Interestingly, Scripture attests more to the acts of the apostles than to their learning. And our works will always shout louder than our words as we will live what we believe to be true. Actions are readily noticed by man as well. They often cannot hear what we say because of what we do. God sanctifies us with His Word which is True Truth. We take the truth of His Word and apply it to our lives and it is so otherworldly that those around us take note. We were never meant to blend with the world rather stand out like stars in the universe as we hold out the Word of Life. Just as we read in Acts 4:13 (NIV) where we are shown through the lives of Peter and John: “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Peter and John were merely fleshing out what their Master had told and equipped them to do. Also, God always provides the strength to fulfill His Word through His vessels.

The Truth is communicated in the Word of God. Scripture tells us in Hebrews 4:12-13 (NIV): “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.” This Truth communicated in God’s Word pierces hearts in all the right places helping us to see what lies within ourselves - for our own selves - showing us what needs to be changed. In His kindness, God seeks to change us incrementally – making us more and more like Jesus. And we never get there either. We are all works in progress. And progress is the operative word here. We do not want to discover ourselves going backwards rather forwards. And standing still is going backwards. There is only so much time – indeed every minute is a miracle and unrepeatable. It is a gift that is not to be wasted. Further our changed thinking will result in changed living. We are to watch our lives and doctrine closely.