"'Now you, son of man, listen to what I am speaking to you; do not be rebellious like that rebellious house. Open your mouth and eat what I am giving you.' Then I looked, and behold, a hand was extended to me; and lo, a scroll was in it ... Then He said to me, 'Son of man, eat what you find; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.' So I opened my mouth, and He fed me this scroll. He said to me, 'Son of man, feed your stomach and fill your body with this scroll which I am giving you.' Then I ate it, and it was sweet as honey in my mouth." (Ezekiel 3:1-3)

Truth can be bittersweet. Insight into God's plan and word is an incredible privilege, but with privilege comes responsibility. Understanding and insight involves response and action.

There is sweetness in receiving God's word, but potential bitterness when we are called to take it to disobedient people in need of corrective action. Few people enjoy having sinful habits and behavior pointed out.

We're reminded in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 of the multi-faceted purposes of God's word: "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." A major role of God's word is to point out the error of our ways and prescribe corrective measures necessary for a life of complete obedience. The results are desirable and appealing, but the process is often painful. We cannot have one without the other.

The word of God is a sharp, two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), cleanly dividing and separating the responsive from the resistant. The responsive are willing to undergo painful surgery in order to achieve spiritual health; the resistant reject the message and, in many cases, the messenger as well.

At the beginning of a new year, may we be fully responsive to God's word, whether it brings sweet instruction or unpleasant correction. We can be confident that it brings the best that our Father has for us.

Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ & https://kingdomdreamer.blogspot.com/

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