Vocabulary is an integral part of our society and individual lives. Spoken and written communication allows us to connect with other human beings. Certain words from the past are no longer used, while others remain in the dictionary with updated definitions. In addition to removing antiquated vocabulary, new terms are inserted into both oral recordings and written documents.
Even small children realize the value of words. Requesting a favorite book, toy, or treat from the kitchen, they do not hesitate to make their desires known. As young people grow older and learn from parents, teachers, and friends, they may even hear the phrase, “NO means no!” in response to an appeal for some privilege.
On a broader scale, it is not uncommon to hear news anchors telling us what to think about the realities we observe with our own eyes:
• Inflation – a word that used to represent tough economic times – is now said to be a good thing.
• Violence and mob rule is renamed “mostly peaceful.”
• Behavior or lifestyles considered unacceptable and embarrassing according to previous generations are now recorded and posted on social media with no sense of shame or regret.
Today, many people have transferred this idea of changing the meaning of words to include the message God has delivered in the Bible. The 10 Commandments morph into “The Ten Suggestions.” Many passages are twisted or their meaning watered down until they fit into what we want to hear, rather than changing our behavior to reflect God’s expectations. Much like the serpent in Eden, we whisper to ourselves, “Did God REALLY say…”
God’s Words are, indeed, “living and active, able to judge the thoughts and intentions of man (Heb. 4:12),” but they are never to be changed to suit our desires. Although society may rewrite history, laws, or simply the dictionary, God’s message to us remains constant and is still beneficial today (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).
Words spoken or written by man may change our lives for a period of time, but God’s Word has the power to affect us eternally. Our choice to believe, honor, and obey it protects us and allows us to confidently say, “THIS is what God says!”
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