the book of Hebrews | Daily Encouragement | Page 39

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“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14, NIV)

Conventional wisdom is not God’s wisdom.

Conventional wisdom says, “Do unto others as others do unto you.” God’s wisdom says, “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”

Conventional wisdom is earth-bound. Follow it, and you’re only as good as the crowd.

Godly wisdom is heaven-bound. Follow it, and you’re as God is good. Live it, and you will not only see as God sees; but you will see God.

To be holy is to be as God is, and begins with seeking reconciliation with everyone – particularly enemies and foes; looking past the outward appearance to the heart; valuing the things of heaven over the things of earth; and redeeming time for eternity. – Luther

Tagged conventional wisdom, holiness, the book of Hebrews

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“Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.” (Hebrews 12:9-10, NIV)

God’s plan for you and me is that we become like Him. This state is called “holiness,” and it was what God had in mind when He created us “in His image and after His likeness.” (Genesis 1:26a) Through the heritage of sin, we fall short of our original destiny.

God is at work in us (always) through our circumstances (all of them) for our good. We aid the process through obedience to God. We hinder God’s work in us when we delay, debate, or detour.

How do we know when to get involved — or when to get out? It begins with our full commitment to do whatever it is that God’s spirit leads us to do; and full confidence in our heavenly Father’s plan for us. – Luther

Tagged corruption, God's plan, holiness, sin, the book of Hebrews

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“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.” (Hebrews 12:7-8, NIV)

Even as flawed parents, we hope that our children will become as we are — only better. So, we allow various kind of inconveniences (of varying severity) to achieve that goal. Perfect in every way, our heavenly Father’s ultimate goal for you and me is that we become exactly like Him!

Whether we view the inevitable hardships of life as punishment (as some do); or as preparation (as others do), depends on the nature of our relationship with God.

When difficulties and hardships invade your life, do you ask, “Why”; or do you say, “Why not”? – Luther

Tagged discipline, godliness, hardship, the book of Hebrews