Hebrews 11-13 – December 22

We need to be willing to endure “hostility from sinners” (Heb. 12:3), and endure the chastening of God so we can finish the race set before us and be partakers of God’s holiness (Heb. 12:10). Next, in chapter 12, the writer gives a pep talk as a coach would talk to a sports team who is tired, discouraged and feels like giving up; verses 12 and 13 from the Message translation read, “So don’t sit around on your hands! No more dragging your feet! Clear the path for long-distance runners so no one will trip and fall, so no one will step in a hole and sprain an ankle. Help each other out. And run for it!” People who have faith in God continue to run with diligence when things are difficult. In sports, when a team feels like there is no hope of winning, they let discouragement and tiredness rule them. What do your recent actions say about your faith?

Often covetousness is from not recognizing that God is with us to take care of our every need. Hebrews 13:5-6 says “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU." So we may boldly say: "THE LORD IS MY HELPER; I WILL NOT FEAR. WHAT CAN MAN DO TO ME?"” When we really know that God is with us and will make sure we have everything we need, it frees us not to have to worry or care about those things. We will be free to seek the kingdom and His righteousness, knowing all things will be added to us.