“For the word of God is living and powerful, and shaper 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).

Amazon.com has more than 3 million book titles for sale. In spite of whatever claims those books make, none makes a claim like the Bible makes about itself: that is alive.

What does this mean?  It means the Bible is not just words. The words are inspired by God’s spirit (Timothy 3:16). And because the words are alive, they can find their way into the lives of those who read them, right down to the division between soul and spirit, joints and marrow – down into the inner parts of our life.  God’s word can even cause us to see the true intention of our thoughts and desires. And, like all living things, the Word of God can produce new life.  As Peter wrote, we are “born again…through the living and enduring word of God”(1 Peter 1:23).

Be warned: Reading the Bible is not like reading any other book.  It has the power to change your life.