For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword—piercing right through to a separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12, TLV
Separation of Soul and Spirit or Unity? The writer of Hebrews — possibly Paul or Luke — at the time was addressing Jewish believers. The people steeped for thousands of years in the Torah — the Law — apparently were struggling like the Galatians with a false doctrine of works. They struggled with fully resting in the atoning work of Jesus and deepening their relationship with their Heavenly Father. Instead, they took the “easy way” of following rules and regulations, rather than the sometimes scary act of walking in faith. And even worse these folks were telling others they should do the same.
For we also have had Good News proclaimed to us, just as they did. But the word they heard did not help them, because they were not unified with those who listened in faith. (vs. 2, TLV)
While we know faith without works is dead (James 2:20), works without faith pulls us from our redemption. Even the pagans did/do good deeds. Our redemption comes only by faith in the work of our Savior. We can rest in what Yeshua has done on our behalf.
For the one who has entered God’s rest has also ceased from his own work, just as God did from His. (vs. 10, TLV)
For the Jewish people were keepers of GOD’s word for thousands of years. It was to the Jewish people God gave the covenants and prophets. And even by flesh, Yeshua was Jewish (Romans 9:4-5). For thousands of years the people struggled with keeping the Law, because it was impossible. But before the Law was given there was faith and obedience. Abraham was deemed righteous, not because of always making perfect decisions — goodness knows that wasn’t the case — but by faith and a teachable heart.
So we see that they were not able to enter in [rest] because of lack of trust. (Hebrews 3:19, TLV)
Think we’re not like these Jewish believers who struggled with resting in faith? We would be wrong. In our efforts to “do the right thing” it can easily morph into self-righteousness. We’re so worried about outward works, we forget about soul and spirit works. Which brings us to today’s verse. Just because someone appears righteous, that façade could be hiding a soul that makes no effort to be transparent in their motivation or true obedience to our Father.
When we hide the WORD in our hearts, the Holy Spirit will reveal when we try to cover our selfish or sinful intentions with works. For example, what if someone offended us and hurt has moved into anger. That anger can be hidden with a hug and smile and God bless you. When in reality our soul refuses to forgive and therefore God will not forgive us (Matthew 6:14-15). Rather than resting in the freedom of forgiveness, we hold onto offense.
Give the Holy Spirit free reign so that our souls are held fast in GOD’s word. Let His word live and grow within us so that we may know that perfect rest and peace.
