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Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. -Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV)

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

It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this. -Legend of Zelda (1986)

There is a classic Nintendo video game series dating back to the 1980s, and the main character, Link, is warned by a wise old man that it is dangerous to go (into the world) alone, and to take the sword given him.

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s books, there is a sword that glows blue when in the presence of enemies.

For believers, this sword is the the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. As I’ve mentioned before, it is my favorite piece of the full armor of God, because it can provide offense and defensive capabilities. It cuts through falsehood and evil, and protects against it. It can warn you and make you aware of danger in your vicinity. And, as a speaker I recently heard put it, one edge of it is also like a scalpel, aiding in the repair and healing process of a believer.

To head out into the world each day without the Word in your heart and on your mind is a very dangerous move to make, indeed. When you do so, you can quickly fall prey to the world and its tempting influences, which are very powerful. When you don’t fill yourself with the Word, you leave a void that can be filled with worldly thoughts and desires…and possibly even think that’s not so bad to do/think that, and slowly go down a slippery slope of sin.

We have to truly be on our guard, and the Word helps sharpen our focus to discern truth from falsehood when we navigate our daily lives. As a doer who is often quick to act and do whatever it takes to get something done under pressure, rather than discuss it, I find myself having to slow down and listen for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. That can be difficult to do, honestly, in our fast-paced world. But the world does not dictate our moves…but the Word can help us make prudent, God-honoring moves.

Be sure to slow down and take the time to invest in God’s Word. Keep the blade edge sharp as you refine your study of the Word. Hide the Word in your heart (Psalm 119:11), so you will never leave home without it. It’s dangerous out there.