To pick up where I left off yesterday, here are the next couple of tips for using the Sword of the Spirit--God's word:  2) When you read highlight, underline and/or keep a notebook to record insights gained as you read.  Rick Warren has said that the difference between Bible reading and Bible study is a pen and paper.  In other words, you're just reading the Bible if you don't stop when you gain a new insight and take the time to reflect on it, to note it in your Bible with a highlighter, or by underlining it, or by making a note in the margins, or by recording the insight in a notebook or journal.  Bible reading is a great exercise, but Bible study is even more important because when we study God's word, taking the time to memorize it and consider how we may apply it in our lives, the Sword of the Spirit becomes an actual weapon against the devil

3) The next tip for those who want to use the Sword of the Spirit in attacking the devil is to USE the Sword of the Spirit in attacking the devil.  So often folks want to study the Bible for the sake of gaining spiritual insight rather than for the actual purpose of being transformed into God's warriors.  Unless we apply God's word it never changes us.  We can't just involve ourselves in Bible reading.  We must commit ourselves to living out what we learn.  The difference between involvement and commitment is crucial.  Involvement takes a minimal amount of time, energy and effort, while commitment engages our lives.  No one has ever become great at anything by mere involvement.  Greatness in any endeavor requires commitment, because over time we become what we're committed to in life!

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father,  I pray for the commitment to do more than just read Your word.  Empower me by Your Holy Spirit to understand and apply it faithfully everyday!  Glorify Yourself in my life today and every day.  This I pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.