… The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17).
At the time of the apostle Paul, the Roman soldiers had at least two different types of swords. One was called Rhomphaia. It was 180 to 240 cm long and was used to chop off the limbs and heads of the enemy soldiers. Because of its size and weight, you had to hold the sword with two hands. This made it impossible for the soldier to use a shield at the same time, leaving him unprotected against arrows and spears.
The other sword was called Machaira. This was a short sword. It was light and enabled the soldier to handle it easily and quickly. It took only one hand, which allowed the soldier to wear a shield. It is this second type of sword that Paul mentions here in Ephesians.
The sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, is the only offensive spiritual weapon of the armor of God, all others are defensively used. Although she can also defend us against a blow from the enemy when the blade is turned to the side. But this is the only type of weapon that actually keeps and overcomes our enemy, who is ultimately Satan.
The question is, how can we practice this sword in our lives? Here are some important principles about the Word of God that we can actively use:
All these activities in connection with the Word of God are not simply knowledge for the sake of knowledge. It's more about gaining wisdom, understanding how the Bible is used in practice, so that we can use this weapon skillfully and appropriately. We should be guided by the sword of the Spirit, also be familiar with the handling of this weapon, and constantly seek God's guidance. Let us ask for wisdom where we lack wisdom. We do not want to neglect the word of God, otherwise our sword will dull against our enemy. If we use the weapon, the sword that the Lord has given us, properly, we can win in that spiritual battle.
Father, you have given us your word as an inexhaustible source. May our life be fulfilled with it. Help us to keep repeating your Word. Enable us to use your word effectively and wisely in the spiritual battles we face. In Jesus name, Amen.
by Barry Robinson
This website contains a diverse selection of Christian literature in German. Translation of the website by Google Translate.