The power of the semicolon

“Every word of God is flawless;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him..."

Proverbs 30:5 NIV

Every word of God proves true.
He is a shield to all who come to him for protection.

Proverbs 30: 5 NLT

As I read various versions of the Proverbs verse, I was interested in the use of a semicolon in the NIV. Several versions use periods instead of a semicolon creating two clauses.  I understand when to use a semicolon, but decided to get an "expert" explanation of why (google lol).  A semicolon is used for closely related independent clauses and a period is used to end a sentence.  The other sentences are not necessarily unrelated, but the period closes what the semi-colon implies is of equal importance. In other words, the two clauses can stand on their own, but there is a need for the reader to know they are related and carry the same weight or importance.

So, what's the relationship or connection?

• It is important that we understand God's word is living truth and full of power.

God’s word is living and active. It is sharper than any two-edged sword and cuts as deep as the place where soul and spirit meet, the place where joints and marrow meet. God’s word judges a person’s thoughts and intentions.

Hebrews 4: 12 GW

• It is important we understand God is our protector.

The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.

Exodus 14: 14 NIV

• It is of equal importance that we understand because God's word is living truth and He is our protector, we are safe when living a life IN Him.

God is not a man, so he does not lie.

He is not human, so he does not change his mind.
Has he ever spoken and failed to act?
Has he ever promised and not carried it through?

Numbers 23: 19 NLT

The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth intoit, and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10 KJV

God bless you.

Maybe God is calling you tonight

“Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless..."

Proverbs 31: 8 GNT

Who comes to mind when you consider those who cannot speak for themselves?  

How does the thought of protecting the rights of someone else make you feel?

I feel helpless, like the need is so great that I'm not sure what I could say or do. I'm also not sure of how equipped I am to act.  I'm convinced that's exactly where the enemy wants me/us...in a position that never moves from feeling bad for "them", one that doubts our calling and ability.

God has placed us on assignment and equipped us to speak up for those with no voice and to protect their rights, but we often run into two problems.

• We don't seek God for the who or the how...We go looking for causes to support and there are folks at arm's reach in need of what the Lord has placed inside of us.
• We attempt to emulate another person instead of being who God created us to be...This is where our life scripture helps us.  I write and teach.  You supervise and lead.  She sings and creates.  He marches and debates.  When we all abide IN the vine, the Holy Spirit will guide us to produce fruit that gives God glory.

May God give us eyes to see, ears to hear, lips that edify, and hands and feet to serve in Jesus' name.

God bless you.

I encourage you to check out the lyrics to a song entitled, "Save My Life" by the Sidewalk Prophets.  It reminds me of my calling I so often take for granted.