What it Means to Receive the Word of God into our Hearts
For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me (John 17:8 KJV)
We often use the phrase “receive the word” in Christian circles, and it is important to understand what it means fully. God’s Word received in a man’s heart is the most powerful force in the universe that can change that person’s life and the world around him. Satan knows it, and he tries to steal the words sown in a person’s heart ( Matt. 13:19).
Jesus gives us a clear meaning of what it means to receive the Word of God and how that is done in the verse above. He said He hath given the words the Father gave to Him to the disciples, and they have received them. The next two clauses then go further to explain to us what it means that they received the words He gave them. He says “they have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that Thou didst send Me.” The Word of God is received when we KNOW or understand what God is saying and BELIEVE or accept it as truth.
God’s Word spoken to you will profit you NOTHING until you understand what it is saying and believe or accept it as true. This is so important that you fully comprehend. Memorizing scripture is important, but until you come to understand what God is saying and accept it fully, it will remain words in your memory. You will be amazed how many scriptures we have in our heads, which we do not even understand let alone accept truly what it is being said. Be intentional with the Word, and ensure you are not just reading or hearing the Word but actually receiving it.
MEDITATE
What is the difference between mere hearing the Word of God and receiving it into our hearts?
APPLY THE WORD
When the Lord taught me this truth, I started paying attention to make sure I understand what I am reading in scripture and search my heart and guide it to ensure it has accepted it. Let this become part of you. Have you understood this devotional? Have you believed or accepted what I am writing here as truth? If yes, then that Word has been received. If no, then it is like a seed that was planted on the road for birds to devour! Ensure you receive the Word always!
PRAY
Ask the Lord to show you how much of the Word you have truly received and how much is merely sitting in your head as scriptures you can remember.
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