An earlier generation of Christians was raised on “sword drills” in Sunday school. Youngsters would line up and “draw swords,” which meant they held up their Bibles. Then a reference was given—perhaps Ephesians 6:17—and they raced to see who could turn there soonest. Scripture was their sword.

The Bible is not only a sword; it is also an entire armory of swords. Sometimes we use it defensively to withstand an attack on our faith or well-being (Ephesians 6:17). But sometimes the swords are aimed at us. We read a verse, hear a sermon, or talk with a friend, and immediately we feel the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

Let the sword drill into you for your good and for God’s glory.

The word, stored in the heart, provides a mental depository for the Holy Spirit to use to mediate His grace to us, whatever our need for grace might be.
Jerry Bridges