This morning I was listening to a conversation between my daughters, ages fifteen and nine; the topic was verses in the Bible. I heard my youngest ask, “Do you think Grandpa knows that one?�, to which my oldest replied, “Grandpa knows all of the verses! He probably has the whole Bible memorized!� This brought a smile to my face because, although I know that my dad doesn’t have the entire Bible memorized, he does refer to it often enough and my daughters’ perception of their grandfather is that he knows God’s Word!

The morning chat reminded me of an incident I read about. Two young sisters frequently spent time with their grandfather and at each visit he encouraged the girls to memorize a new scripture verse. Over the years, the girls had learned many verses and often referred to them in tough situations. On this occasion, when they knocked on their grandfather’s door, they were surprised when he didn’t invite them in. Instead of his usual warm welcome, he sent them away in serious tones telling them to read and study Psalm 22:11 and then return to him â€" soon. As they sadly walked away, they wondered at the verse he had given them and upon looking it up ran home to show their mother who quickly called the police. Returning to their grandfather’s house, they were informed that two masked men, now captured, had broken in and had been holding the elderly man at gunpoint when the girls had visited earlier. When the police asked the girls how they knew to get help, the girls simply stated that they understood that the verse he had given them meant he was in danger. ~Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. Psalm 22:11~ The power of God’s Word, in the hands of children, had defeated evil that day!

God’s Word is the most powerful weapon we have; Sharper than any double-edged sword. Reading and learning scripture is of utmost importance for Christians at every age because God’s Word is not only our hope, but our Salvation as well. It is the one weapon that we should carry with us at all times. Can others tell that you know God’s Word? Let that be a legacy for your children and grandchild to see; that it is not enough to know God’s Word, we must live it as well.

Suggested Prayer: Dear God, Your Word is a precious treasure, and we are so blessed to have it to read and study freely. Allow your Words to be a living “weapon� through me so that others might see the power of your Spirit. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

1.    Hebrews 4:12 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.