Shields Down

The word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.

Since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.  (Hebrews 4:12-16)

We are all capable of being double-edged swords.  We can cut both ways and deep separating soul from spirit. A double-edged sword was useful in battle because there was no need to turn the blade, and sweeping left-right-left cuts were needed in close-quarter combats.  The double-edge was deadly.

Our tongues are like those swords because they can cut and sometimes to the bone and separating soul and spirit. “Sticks and stones can break our bones, but words will never hurt us” is a well-known saying.  However, it is so untrue.  We wound with our tongues.   We kill spirits.   Unkind words cleave.  

In contrast, the word of God is sharp and penetrates deep to transform us and strike evil from our hearts.  The only problem is too many of us carry impenetrable shields to defect the word.  For those of us holding shields, let’s recall Captain Jean Luc Picard of Star Trek fame who after battle would famously shout: “Shields down!” 

Deacon David Pierce