Luke 11:28 (KJV)

But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it


On the surface level, when people read this verse they think they must obey God's word. They think that is going to bring them blessings and happiness. But this is why I always emphasize reading in the original text. If we look at this word "keep" in Kone greek, it actually says to guard. 

phylassō: 

to guard, to watch, keep watch.

God is not telling us to obey, he's telling us to guard his word which is the gospel inside of our hearts. We must make sure not to taint it, not to allow anything to strip this precious gospel away from our hearts.

Satan does the job of making you thinking you must obey his word. Of course we are to obey, but in this context it means we must accept and hold dear to our heart the gospel of Jesus. We must guard it at all costs especially when the enemy tries to shift you off of the gospel.

Jesus spoke these words in response to a woman who blessed His mother for bearing Him. He was sharing such knowledge and wisdom that the woman thought that was a blessing. But Jesus highlights what the true blessing is.
He is telling us that hearing the gospel and holding it deep inside of your heart is the real blessing.
To hear God's word means to actively listen to His gospel. This involves spending time in Scripture about the gospel, attending church services that preach true gospel, participating in gospel centered Bible studies, and preaching the gospel to others.

This is how we "keep" the word, align ourselves with his will, and spread the good news. We call this the true obedience to his word. So many people are focused on what they can do for God. Sure, fasting, tithing, praying, and helping others is good. But what does this do for God or a person who's soul is suffering?

Rather than giving them money, clothes, food, or shelter God wants to give them the gospel which provides eternal life. How thankful a person would be if he or she received the true gospel. This is what God is always focused on. This is the true blessing of God.

This blessing is not merely material but encompasses peace, joy, and fulfillment that come from walking in the gospel.

I hope we all can start to read the bible in a way that is gospel centered. We must always lead with the gospel and with the will of God.

Amen!