Hebrews chapter 10: verses 23-24 (NIV)
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Hebrews Chapter 4: Verses 15-16 (NIV)
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
The letter to the Hebrews was written to those suffering persecution, it is thought during the time of Nero in Rome, so they were being encouraged to stay strong and focused in their faith and not turn back in the face of fearful difficulties. But its interesting that as well as remaining strong in their faith, they were being counselled to consider how they could spur each other on in love and in good deeds.
When we are facing times of trial and difficulties it is very easy for this to become our focus, and we can be caught up in trying to plan out how we can get through the circumstances. That doesn’t help, and certainly doesn’t make us feel any better. The best thing we can do is to commit our own situation into God’s hands and leave it to Hom, because we are reminded that He who promised is indeed faithful.
In our Connect group’s Bible studies we have been looking at the letters of Paul and we are currently working through the letters sent to the Thessalonian Church We have been struck by how much Paul concerns himself with others, and building them up, even in the midst of his own trials. I think therefore, that when we look outside of our own situation and seek to be a blessing and encouragement to others, the impact is two-fold. It helps the people we reach out to, and it makes us actually feel good in spite of our own situation. As Christians we are fortunate to be in a place where we don’t need to become so self-absorbed that we flounder. We have a great High priest who has complete empathy for us in our time of need and to whom we can go to at any time. That’s why Paul was still able to be an encourager, because he himself was being encouraged through the Holy Spirit. And we know that Jesus is still the same today as He was then, and He will be tomorrow, so we too should be able to take our eyes off ourselves and look to Him, and by doing so we will encourage others to do the same.
Dear Lord,
I am grateful for the empathy and grace that we receive through Jesus. Help me to show that same empathy and encouragement to others. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.