The Westminster Shorter Catechism Q89 - What makes the word effective for salvation? A89 - The Spirit of God causes the reading and especially the preaching of the word to convince and convert sinners and to build them up in holiness and comfort through faith to salvation. Q90 - How is the word to be read and heard in order to become effective for salvation? A90 - For the word to become effective for salvation, we must pay careful attention to it, prepare ourselves, and pray for understanding. We must also receive it with faith and love, treasure it in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.