Mixing the Word with faith
For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the Word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it (Hebrews 4:2 KJV)
God spoke to the Israelites in the desert in the giving of the Law. He promised to give them rest in the promised land. It was good news to them that the Lord was bringing them out of slavery in Egypt to a land flowing with milk and honey. However, something happened along the way. Even though God spoke to them, the scripture above tells us the Word they heard did not profit them because they did not mix that Word with faith.
The Word of God requires an appropriate response from us for it to work. The Jews heard the Word, came out out of Egypt, rebelled in the desert, did not believe God when they heard there were giants on the way, and were disobedient. They did not mix the Word with faith. Please note that faith here is not restricted to not believing in their hearts. It is a combination of unbelief in their hearts and disobedience that resulted, as seen in the entire chapter of Hebrews 4.
God has also spoken to you and me in Christ. The Word of the Law came to the Jews as the Word of Grace has come to us. Both are from God. If we do not mix it with faith, it will not profit us, just as it did not profit the Jews.
MEDITATE
Was faith expected of the Israelites in the Old Testament according to the verse above? What is the difference between the faith they had and the faith you and I have in Christ today?
APPLY THE WORD
If you do not mix God’s Word with faith, it will not produce the expected results. Mix the Word with faith and respond appropriately when you receive His Word by believing and doing.
PRAY
Ask the Spirit to help you respond appropriately to the Word at all times.
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