Tag Archives: the book of Hebrews

November 5
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“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’”  (Hebrews 12:28-29, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus may inhabit the sands of time, but her destiny is firmly established on the bedrock of eternity.  Although she is a temporary resident of earth, she is a permanent citizen of heaven.

Were we to survey the history of the world with a perspective of centuries or of millennia — instead of years, as we commonly do — we would more clearly see that all kingdoms and dynasties are temporary.  We would also see that the kingdom of God, and the word of God, are enduring.

For this reason, give thanks for God’s gift of a kingdom that cannot be shaken; for a king that cannot be bought; for a future that is certain, and that grows brighter with each passing day.  – Luther

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November 4
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“Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  (Hebrews 12:3, NIV)

The antidote for fatigue and discouragement is the life of Jesus.

Because of His spirit within us, we each can be as Jesus was when facing opposition from others.  For example, when reviled (verbally abused) He did not revile in return; He prayed for His enemies; He sought reconciliation with His foes; He remembered that even when the devil and the forces of evil win a battle, it is God who shall win the war.

If you say that you cannot overcome opposition as Jesus did, you are correct — if your only resources are your own.  To succeed as Jesus succeeded, we must follow in His steps.  – Luther

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November 3
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“Women received back their dead, raised to life again.  There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection.”  (Hebrews 11:35, NIV)

Every follower of Jesus should read the entirety of chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews to grasp the fact that current-day faithfulness does not guarantee current-day success.

While it is true that God blesses His faithful ones, we err when we begin to think that these “rewards” all come in this life; or at times when we think we would derive the most benefit from them.  Some rewards — like some punishments, for reasons known only to God — are reserved for life after life.

To be a true person of faith requires that we continue to believe (and act in accordance with that belief) although we have yet to receive that for which we hope.  It is not always an easy day.

However, as the writer of Hebrews assures us in verse 1: This is what the ancients were commended for by God.  – Luther

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