“Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. ”
-Hebrews 10:23 – expanded readings: Hebrews 10:23-25
This scripture selection encourages the reader in three ways. First, we are encouraged to keep a solid grip on our hope in the Lord. We are to act on our hope, rather than hold it passively. In day-to-day life, we are often faced with situations that distract us from God and may cause us to doubt His faithfulness and power. We can hold fast to God’s promises because He does not change. He is ever-present and does not abandon us when life circumstances become difficult. As problems begin to challenge our trust, we must remember God’s faithfulness in the early years of our faith and know that he remains at our side no matter the circumstance. The second directive is to encourage fellow believers to provoke love and good works. This must be intentional, allowing our eyes to be opened to needs in our church and community. We should direct our thoughts toward inspiring kind service and generosity – not for personal gain or glory. It is said that no man is an island – we are meant to live and work together, raising each other up not only in prayer but in good deeds. Finally, the third command is to not give up meeting together. As work and other activities sometimes take precedence in our lives, we must not neglect the importance of meeting regularly with our fellow believers for fellowship as we worship God and seek His forgiveness and strength. This fellowship provides comfort and joy, but it is also necessary for accountability and provides opportunities to learn from each other. As we await the return of our beloved Savior, let us remember the importance of growing together and strengthening our faith and that of our brothers and sisters in Christ, who also encourage us in our hope and assist us in our service to the Lord and to our fellows.
Prayer: Faithful Lord, please continue to draw us close to you and to each other that we might continue to grow in faith, love, and service together. Amen.
Written by Gail Brecht