I love the Word of God. I really do. Through His Word, God has changed my life, given me hope, corrected me, and granted me wisdom. 

Last week I finished a series called, Truth, in which I explained why we can trust the Bible. 

Today I was again reminded of the value of God’s word as I read these verses in Hebrews:

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12-13‬ ESV)

One reason why God is a JUST God is that He judges not only our actions, but our motivations. He sees them both. 

Let me explain our human limitations and weaknesses in this area:

1. Our tendency is to judge others according to “law,” while judging ourselves according to grace. 
2. We draw quick conclusions based on someone’s actions, but may not have any awareness of what motivated them to act that way. If we could see someone’s heart, we may respond with greater compassion. 
3. We often excuse our own attitudes and behavior because of what we are feeling and thinking at the time. We justify our wrong actions, based on our own hurts and fears. 

There’s no way around it. We often live with a double standard. 

That’s why God’s word is so vital. It discerns the thoughts and intents of our own hearts, and reminds us to let God be the Judge of others. 

Make no mistake- everyone will be held accountable for his/her life. But it won’t be you or me in the Judge’s seat. 

God’s word provides sound judgement along life’s journey. It corrects my course, keeps me grounded and humble. 

If I allow God’s word to correct me, it won’t ultimately condemn me.