God's Word

Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Proverbs 30:5 (HCSB)

The word pure literally refers to something that has been refined or purified. Every word of God has been tested and purified, like metal in a smelter. Hence, the New American Standard Bible, updated version renders this verse,

Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Prov 30:5 (NASB95)

Men, in their rebellion against God have tried to destroy God's Word. They have sought to stamp it out of existence, yet through the ages the Word of God has stood and still stands. It has stood the tests of time, of criticism, of ignorance and hate, and it stands pure and true. Not some of it, but all of it. Every Word of God is pure.

Unlike the blows of the blacksmith’s hammer which help strengthen the metal that comes out of the refining fire, the attacks against the Bible do not purify it. Rather, the blows that fall on the Bible ultimately only wear out the hammers and anvils of the attackers.

In our daily lives God calls on His people to put his Word to the test. Live by His Word. Put it—it’s teachings, it’s guidance, it’s correction and it’s promises-- to the test in the struggles of life and discover in the process of life that every word of God put to the test in the furnace of man’s experience will be proven pure and true. And the result will be that your own faith will be strengthened and purified.

Jesus said, Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4 (NIV-emphasis mine.)

The last part of verse 5 says,

He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.

Does this mean that God will protect His child from every trial, attack of the enemy, or from every pain and problem. No. But whatever does come, it cannot hurt the child of God who is obedient to His Word and who seeks refuge in God.