Our study of Hebrews during mid-week bible class has truly caused me to think far more deeply about my faith in Christ. Not questioning that faith; but rather, coming to terms with the faith which God yearns for me to grow into. This letter of Hebrews, was written to Jewish Christians, struggling with their faith. Have you ever struggled with yours? Well, God encourages them to “run with endurance” (12:1), for the race which is “set before” them and us, has some truly challenging moments. The question may be, “How do you see those moments?”
My son, do not despise the chastening
of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when
you are rebuked by Him.
Hebrews 12:5
Also found in Proverbs 3:11, these words follow the exhortation to “consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls” (Hebrews 12:3). Have you ever been weary and discouraged in your faith? For these Christians, the fact is that they had “not yet resisted to bloodshed”; that is, it could possibly get even more difficult in your walk with Christ in the future. (Take a moment and read Hebrews 11:36-37) So, again, “How do you see those moments?” Consider Hebrews 12:6, “For who the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” The writer would go on in the next couple of verses explaining this truth; that is, those difficulties in life are “for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness” (Hebrews 12:10). You see, to get to where God so desperately wants us to be, we will have to face obstacles…moments…or better yet, opportunities that will challenge us to grow. So, how should we see these moments? With honesty.
Now no chastening seems to be
joyful or the present, but painful;
nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness
o those whohave been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:11
Moments of adversity, where faith is challenged and endurance is tested, we need to see God at work in us. That is how we need to see those moments! God wants to us to partake in His holiness, and for that to happen, work needs to be done. Although one may not jump up and down with joy when faced by such events, they can be sure that God is at work and fruit will come from it. So, Lord, help us to stay fixed on You and trust that You know what You are doing…always! Amen.
Dennis
