The Inward Dwelling Of The Word Of God

THE INWARD DWELLING OF THE WORD OF GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Colossians 3:16

Supporting Texts: Psalm 119:11, Joshua 1:8, John 15:7, Hebrews 4:12, James 1:21-25

INTRODUCTION:

The Word of God is not just to be heard or read occasionally; it is to dwell richly within us. Many believers today treat the Bible like a reference book, only consulted when there’s trouble or confusion. However, God's Word is meant to take root in our hearts, influence our thoughts, guide our actions, and shape our destiny.

The Apostle Paul, in Colossians 3:16, urges believers to let the Word of Christ dwell richly within them. This dwelling speaks of constant presence, ownership, and influence. Just as a person dwelling in a house occupies and controls the environment, so must the Word of God dwell in us—directing, correcting, teaching, and building us up.

When the Word dwells inwardly, we become fruitful, stable, and discerning Christians. It becomes our internal compass, our source of strength in trials, and the light that guides us through darkness.

1. THE WORD AS A TREASURE STORED IN THE HEART

When God’s Word dwells inwardly, it becomes our most valued possession.

a) It Guards Us from Sin (Psalm 119:11)

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

b) It Keeps Our Hearts Pure (John 17:17)

Sanctify them through your truth; your Word is truth.

c) It Builds Faith and Trust in God (Romans 10:17)

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.

d) It Brings Spiritual Nourishment (Jeremiah 15:16)

God’s Word is food for the soul that satisfies our deepest hunger.

Biblical Example: The boy Samuel grew in wisdom and favour because he learned to listen and respond to God’s Word (1 Samuel 3:19–21).

2. THE WORD AS A GUIDE FOR DAILY LIVING

The inward dwelling of the Word influences our decisions and conduct.

a) It Provides Direction (Psalm 119:105)

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

b) It Gives Wisdom for Choices (Proverbs 3:5–6)

God’s Word helps us acknowledge Him in all our ways.

c) It Teaches and Corrects (2 Timothy 3:16)

The Word is profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training.

d) It Brings Peace and Stability (Isaiah 26:3)

Those whose minds are stayed on the Word are kept in perfect peace.

Biblical Example: Jesus used the Word as a weapon to overcome temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11).

3. THE WORD MUST BE MEDITATED UPON AND OBEYED

It is not enough to hear the Word; we must live it out.

a) Meditation Leads to Prosperity (Joshua 1:8)

Success comes from meditating on the Word day and night.

b) Obedience Brings Transformation (James 1:22)

Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

c) The Word Should Dwell Richly, Not Sparsely (Colossians 3:16)

It should saturate our thoughts, speech, and songs.

d) Transformation Is Evidence of the Word’s Power (Romans 12:2)

When the Word dwells in us, we are not conformed but transformed.

Biblical Example: Ezra prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach it in Israel (Ezra 7:10).

4. THE WORD BEARS FRUIT IN THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVER

When God’s Word is planted within us, it produces visible results.

a) It Produces Godly Character (Galatians 5:22–23)

The fruit of the Spirit is nurtured by a life rooted in Scripture.

b) It Equips Us for Every Good Work (2 Timothy 3:17)

The Word prepares us to live lives that glorify God.

c) It Makes Us Resilient in Trials (Matthew 7:24–25)

Those who build on the Word stand strong in the storm.

d) It Empowers Effective Prayer (John 15:7)

“If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish.”

Biblical Example: The Bereans were praised for daily searching the Scriptures, and their faith grew strong (Acts 17:11–12).

CONCLUSION:

The inward dwelling of the Word of God is not optional—it is essential. Without it, we live shallow, powerless Christian lives, vulnerable to deception and defeat. But when the Word dwells richly in us, it equips, strengthens, transforms, and keeps us aligned with God's will.

Let us cultivate a lifestyle of reading, meditating, memorising, and obeying God’s Word. The more the Word fills our hearts, the more our lives will reflect the character and power of Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, let Your Word dwell richly in my heart every day.

2. Father, help me to obey and apply Your Word in every area of life.

3. Cleanse my heart from anything that hinders the growth of Your Word.

4. Teach me to meditate on Your Word and live by its truth.

5. Let my life bear fruits that glorify You through the power of Your Word.