The Living & Active Word

Our Ladies Life Group started up this week with seven new ladies bringing the total in the group to eighteen. I was a little nervous about our first meeting and prayed for God to bring a powerful sense of His presence and love.

Because many of us didn’t know each other, we kicked off the time by asking each person to share their favorite verse and how God had used it in their lives.

“I don’t know much about the Bible, but I’ve been struggling with my health,” one lady explained as emotion rose in her voice. “My friends and family don’t understand. They’re used to me being the strong one.” She kept a verse from Proverbs scribbled on a post-it note at her workstation but couldn’t remember the words.

It didn’t take much conversation to realize God was speaking to her daily through Proverbs 3:5-6:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.

Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

“I’ll never forget how God rescued your daughter from a coma,” explained one lady to another as her eyes filled with tears. She went on to explain that God continued to deepen her faith through that same verse in Proverbs.

The power of God’s Word continued to wash over our souls:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

“For I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

“Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today… The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Exodus 14:13-14

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

“Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7

“I belong to the Lord.” Isaiah 44:5

As the Living and Active Word of God spoke Life over our group, I was reminded that Jesus, the Bread of Life, said “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)

I was humbled by the vulnerability of these ladies and their sincere desire to seek the Lord and grow in their faith. The power and activity of our Lord was tangible: Faith was strengthened, Hope was renewed, Hearts were united through the power of His Holy Spirit.

What verse is God using to speak hope and faith into your life? Will you share it with someone today?