My 4:12 Life So Far

"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 the attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

My one resolution for 2009 was to live a 4:12 Life - to steep myself in God's Word and to grow spiritually thru it. Last week, at my church's prompting, I read and studied Psalm 119. It is the longest chapter in the Bible, and at first seemed very repetitive. But it was a good start to my 4:12 Life because of its message of the beauty of God's Word. The Bible is a guide for life - a road map, so to speak - a flashlight to guide our path thru this dark world ("Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105) While this chapter speaks repeatedly of God's laws/precepts/statues, it also speaks of freedom in obedience to these laws. Contrary to what we often expect, obeying God's law does not inhibit or restrain us - instead it frees us to be what God designed us to be! Indeed, studying God's Word and obeying His laws brings great peace ("Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble." Psalm 119:165). And who doesn't long for peace in their hearts? I know I do.

So what does God want me to know? I believe He wants me to know that His Word is good, true, and powerful - and relevant in my life. What does God want me to feel? He wants me to feel the peace that comes with knowing His Word and experiencing freedom in Him. What does God want me to do? I believe He wants me to study His Word, to read it and "hide it in my heart" (v. 11), making it a guide in everything I do.

This week starts a new study for me, thru our church, so I am reading Exodus 1, and Genesis 1 & 2. The focus of the study will be on Exodus, so that is the main focus of my reading and studying this week. I'll let you know how it goes!