Lessons From A Piece of Wood

Hebrews 4:12-13 (New International Version)

 ¹² For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. ¹³ Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

John Patton was a missionary in the New Hebrides in the mid-nineteenth century. He loved these people and hoped to bring God's message of love to them.

One day, while building his house on one of the smaller islands, John realized that he needed some nails and tools. He took a piece of planed wood and wrote a few words on it, then he turned his gaze on Chief Namakie: "Would you mind bringing this to my wife on the other side of the island?" he asked. "She will hand you the tools I need."

The chief was a bit perplexed. "What do you want her to give me?" he asked.

"The piece of wood will tell her," John responded.

"How can this be possible? No one has ever heard of wood speaking!" exclaimed the incredulous chief.

But John was serious, and the chief made his trek to find Margaret, John's wife. He silently gave her the board and watched her as she looked at it attentively. A few minutes later, she collected an assortment of tools and nails and handed them to the chief. "Please take these to John," she said.

When John received the tools from the chief, he exclaimed: "Thanks, that's exactly what I needed!"

The chief, now completely puzzled, wanted an explanation, so John patiently read the words that he had written on the piece of wood and the response from his wife. He then explained to the chief the concepts of handwriting. The chief had never heard of such a thing!

John continued his explanation: "God, in the same way, has spoken to us through His Word, the Bible. God's will is written in there and He clearly indicates that He loves you and wants you to be His friend. When you read it, you will hear God speaking to you from its pages, just like Mrs. Patton heard me from the piece of wood that you brought her."

The chief insisted that John teach him how to read. At his persistence, John then translated portions of God's Word into his language. Chief Namakie was so excited! Now he could delight in meditating on God's Word on his own, and he could also share the Good News of Jesus with others!

Only His Word, with the help of God's Holy Spirit, can keep us from heading in the wrong direction. Neglecting His daily advice is like someone with a heart condition neglecting to take his heart's pills. It can be deadly!

Do you have a piece of wood I can borrow?

Dear Lord we thank You for the dierections You have given us in Your WORD. Help us share that with those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.