… the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. — 2 Corinthians 3:6
As I sit here writing this, my room is illuminated by eight fluorescent tubes. But those fluorescent tubes, by themselves, don’t do anything. By themselves, they would not dispel the darkness and bring the light. Only when they are connected to electricity do they bring light.
Many people handle the word of God. Cults handle it. Atheists handle it. Even Satan himself handles it (see Luke 4:9-10). Some use it to twist the truth. Some use it to injure and harm. But others open the word and bring life.
Why? What’s the difference? Isn’t it the same inspired scripture?
In my college days, when I worked as a janitor, before the days of recycling, we had fun throwing the spent fluorescent tubes into the dumpster and watching them shatter and implode. Without electricity, a fluorescent tube is not only useless, but also one bump away from becoming a pile of shattered glass that cuts and causes harm.
Scripture is a wonderful thing. But, like us, it was never meant to have any use when disconnected from the Spirit of God. When God shows up, His word brings life.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
To find out more about Dwight Clough, his books, his ministry, or to receive this devotional via email visit DwightClough.com. Dwight and his wife Kim are active members of Lake City Church in Madison.