The Double-Edged Sword

A symbol we use in our worship and intercession is the double-edged sword. Ephesians 6:17 calls this sword “the sword of the spirit” and lists it as part of God’s armor.  We are exhorted here to take up this sword to battle our spiritual enemy, Satan and his fallen angels. We see this sword used by Christ in Matthew 4:1-11.

I love the Word of God, both written and living.  I have so often used this two-edged sword when worried, fearful, discouraged, etc.  I bring to mind words like: “God has not given us the spirit of fear…..” or “Be careful for nothing…..let your requests be made known unto God,” or “He will cover you with His feathers,”  and many others. These contain life for me, they give me hope, they silence my spiritual enemy.

I like what Hanna E. Farwell said in her book, The Sword and the Tambourine. In beautiful prose she writes, “We carry a sword; it is the indwelling Holy Spirit who rises up within to evoke eternal change and to advance the Kingdom and the rule of the King of Kings – Jesus. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end  (see Isa. 9:7).  We advance with Him, with His praise in our mouths and a double-edged sword in our hands – the word of His authority.  We are aware of enemies around us and a world in need, but we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our Commander.  He makes all things possible!  He will train our hands for war!