Tag Archives: the book of Hebrews

November 14
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“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”  (Hebrews 13:7, NIV)

Today’s scripture is today’s challenge for us!

Can you remember your former Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teachers; or your small group bible discussion leaders; or a former pastor, or anyone else to whom you looked-up who “spoke the word of God to you”?

Will you consider the outcome of their lifestyle of prayer, study, service to others, and faithful obedience?

Are you willing to accept the challenge of imitating their faith in God?

There is great encouragement (and strength) for us today in the histories of God’s faithful ones.  – Luther

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November 13
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“Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”  (Hebrews 13:3, NIV)

I do not believe it to be a coincidence that the writer of the book of Hebrews encourages us to be hospitable (verse 2) immediately before encouraging us to be sympathetic (verse 3).  One virtue compliments the other.

If you are unsure how to extend hospitality, put yourself in the other person’s place, and you’ll never be far from the mark.  To meet the need of someone who is suffering, allow yourself to get close enough to the need at hand and the Holy Spirit will inform your speech and guide your hands.

Prison and maltreatment are two states where a person is prone to being forgotten.  As disciples of Jesus, we are led to such places to provide hope and healing.  – Luther

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November 11
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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 good for God.  Live it, and you will not only see as God sees; but you also 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

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