The Word of God is alive and active. It does not merely inform the mind—it pierces the heart, exposing motives and calling for transformation. Unlike any human argument or philosophy, Scripture cuts through our defenses, reveals our true condition, and brings both uncomfortable conviction and healing restoration. The image of a two-edged sword suggests that God's Word cuts both ways—it divides truth from error and exposes both good and evil within us.

In 1902, a poor English housemaid named Gladys Aylward felt called to missionary work in China. She applied to the China Inland Mission but was rejected—they said she was too old at twenty-six and would never learn the difficult Chinese language. Devastated but undeterred, Gladys turned to her Bible for direction. The book of Nehemiah pierced her heart with fresh power. As she read how Nehemiah wept over Jerusalem's need yet felt trapped by his duties, she identified completely. But when she reached chapter two and saw that Nehemiah went anyway despite obstacles, a voice seemed to speak: "Gladys Aylward, is Nehemiah's God your God?" "Yes!" she replied. "Then do what Nehemiah did, and go." That living Word cut through every excuse, every fear, every human limitation. Gladys saved her wages as a maid, bought a train ticket to China via the Trans-Siberian Railway, and arrived in 1930 with only her Bible and two pounds ninepence. Despite the "experts" saying it was impossible, she learned Mandarin fluently, opened the Inn of Eight Happinesses, became a Chinese citizen, rescued hundreds of orphans during wartime, and served faithfully for nearly forty years. The living Word that pierced her heart in London sustained her through decades in China.

Prayer: Living God, let Your Word search our hearts and expose what needs to change. Cut away pride, fear, and disobedience. Pierce through our excuses and call us to faith and action. Make us quick to hear and obey when You speak. Amen.