ales krivec qzj2snrnqey unsplash

The Word Accomplishes Its Purpose

Isaiah 55:10-11 (ESV) — For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

 

Before turning sixteen years old and getting a driver’s license, every person knows what it feels like to want a ride. I remember as a teenager in high school wanting rides to games, the movies, or a friend’s house, but I needed a ride. I either needed my parents to take me or a friend to take me. I needed a vehicle to transfer me from one place to another. 

 

In that scenario, a vehicle is a means to a destination. In the same way, the Word of God is talked about by theologians as a means of grace, or a vehicle to a destination. That destination for the Christian is toward godliness, holiness, and communion with God. 

 

Our passage today reminds us of this truth. Isaiah uses the rain and snow as examples of how those elements provide nourishment to the earth and are the tools of God for bringing sprouts from seeds and ultimately bread. The snow and rain become a way by which bread feeds the eater. It is a means of grace. In the same way, God’s Word goes out of His mouth and it does not return void. It has a goal to accomplish. It is a vehicle. It fulfills the purposes He sends it forth to accomplish. This is an amazing thought.

 

This is why we must read God’s Word. We should make a regular practice of reading Scripture. It is a means of grace for our growth in godliness. We are sanctified by God’s Word into Christlike character. God sends His Word out. If we engage in it, it does something. It doesn’t return void. Just as when we get into a vehicle we will get to where it takes us, so God’s Word does the same. Get into the Word and let it take you to God.


Reflection & Journal:

- What is a means of grace? Why are they so important? 

- What are some different approaches for reading the Bible that you can use?

- How does reading the Bible change and transform us? 


Sign up to receive our daily devotions in your inbox here!