Family Group Night | FEBRUARY 12, 2023

Hebrews 4:12

“For the word of God is alive 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.”

In the houses of families all over America you will find a Bible. It is sometimes on a bookshelf, on a coffee table, or by the lamp next to the bed. Some are rough and tattered due to years of use. Some are brand new, waiting to be cracked open. Still others have been ignored for years. But God’s word is not a dusty relic. According to our Bible verse for today, it is living and active. And those who open it and follow it are forever affected.

1. The first part of our passage reminds us that God’s word is “living and active.” How can a book be alive? How does the Bible being alive and active affect the lives of its readers today?

2. Our verse today God’s word is like a sword that cuts through our “joints and marrow.” This speaks of a radical cutting. What does the Lord need to cut out of your life today? How can the Bible help to do that?

3. This scripture also says that the Bible gets into our spirit, dividing “soul and spirit.” How can the Bible get into your life spiritually? What are some of the spiritual adjustments God can make in the life of a Bible-reader?

1. ADJUST YOUR ACTIONS. God's word affects you physically, your very joints and marrow, adjusting your body and actions. Follow the Lord and do His will.

2. ADJUST YOUR THOUGHTS. Our scripture says God’s word, “judges our thoughts.” Flood your mind with scripture to bring clarity to your thoughts and opinions.

3. ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDES. This Bible verse also says that the word of God judges the “attitudes of the heart.” Many people need an attitude adjustment! What are some attitudes the Lord and His word can adjust in your life today?

Dear Lord, please use your word, the Bible to change my heart, change my life, change my attitudes and adjust my actions so that all I do, say, and think will bring honor to you. Radically change all that concerns me so I will not conform to the pattern of this world. Transform me by the Word of God. Create in me a clean heart in Jesus’ name. Amen.