Daily Devotional

Paul describes the Word here as quick. Translated back into Greek, the word "quick" can be better described as "living." The Word of God has a living power; it is not dead, inert or powerless. It is energetic and active, and accomplishes that which it was meant to do. God said that His Word will not return unto Him void, but it shall accomplish its purpose.

Next, we come to "powerful" — In Greek, it means active or operative. It is effectual and mighty. Its power is seen in awakening the conscience, laying bare the secret feelings of the heart, and causing the sinner to tremble.

The writer then goes on to explain how Gods active, alive and powerful Word operates:

1. It separates (divides) soul and spirit. In other words, the Word of God is able to cause the sinful (or animal) nature in us to die and make us alive in His love, grace and mercy.

2. It separates bones and the marrow, the marrow being the flesh within the bone. Just as we have the core in the centre of the earth that keeps the earth together, so too does the marrow in our bones. Basically, the Word has the power to reach as far as to the most intimate and accurate knowledge of mans most hidden parts.

3. Most importantly though, is that the Word can discern the "thoughts and intents of the heart." Yes, God can search our inner beings. But here, Paul is stressing the fact that Gods Word brings to light issues in our lives that we need to work on.

When in doubt, when you need answers, go to His Word for the answer. God says that His Word is the bread of life, sufficient to sustain you.