Hebrews 10:19-25
Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 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, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:19-25 (NIV)
In today’s verse I find myself resonating with the words “confidence” and “assurance” and “unswerving.” Each of these words from the letter to the Hebrews calls them and us to hold onto the knowledge that Jesus died for us and to cleanse us from our sin. These words speak to me because I don’t always have them in my heart.
I know I am not alone in my doubts. Sometimes my doubt springs from earthly difficulties, like not feeling recognized for my hard work or not getting what I think I deserve out of that hard work. Other times the weight of the world and all the struggles around us in politics, healthcare, or finances can make the world look bleak. All of these times draw me away from God, as it shifts my focus from him.
How great is the gift of faith that God has given us, then, when we can have faith amidst all the doubts of the world. I find that confidence in God still sweeter knowing that it comes despite my doubts. God's gives us the blessed assurance that we do not earn our salvation, and God gives us the ability to hold unswervingly to hope for a future and His plans for us. Faith, in some ways, requires there to be some doubt; otherwise, it would simply be facts. Thank God for the gift of Faith.
Questions for Reflection:
- When you think of faith, what words resonate with you? Either from this verse or others?
- In your life what causes you to doubt? Can you recognize it?
- How might you help (spur) someone toward love and good deeds through your faith as the passage suggests?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, so often we think of our faith as something we must do or think ourselves. Help us to remember faith as a gift from You. Remind us that we can never earn our salvation, nor can we do anything to have it taken away from us. Thank You for the gift of faith that quiets our doubts. Amen.
Login To Leave Comment