Power and purpose

So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth;

It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it.

(Isa 55:11)

There are times my words have absolutely no effect on my children. I may make an impassioned plea for a child to change certain behavior, try to encourage a child to give their best effort in a task or suggest a solution to a problem... my words seem to fall on deaf ears. A friend or family member may offer the same advice, and suddenly the child reacts like this is new information. Perhaps the soil has to be just right for the seed to take root at the appointed time.

The word of God has power and purpose; God’s word is effective and intentional. He speaks, and He creates; He speaks and His word penetrates heart and mind and soul; He speaks and healing occurs, forgiveness follows.

May we stand like Samuel this Lent, and say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”