Reflecting on Hebrews 3:12-19
Take care, brothers and sisters, not to turn away from God. Exhort one another every day so that we do not become hardened by sin. Do not harden your hearts again.
I hear three things when I read this passage.
First, we should refuse to walk away from God. Turning away from God’s will leads to our destruction, and we must be diligent about keeping that from happening. In practical terms, we must hold any spiritual discipline that will keep us on the path toward God.
Second, we should raise one another up not just for the purpose of raising another, but so that it becomes habit to exhort rather than to condemn. Often on the Message (radio station) they will remind us that, “Practice makes perfect, so we should be careful what we practice.” We need to be more deliberate about our words and actions.
Third, each day we have the ability to make newer and better decisions. Even if yesterday was a day full of sin and regret, this day is new and full of new possibilities. Make better choices starting right now.
Which disciplines are most helpful to keep you close to God?
Are you raising others up even as you work on yourself?
How will you keep from hardening your heart?
Written by: Pastor Sandi Phillips, Wesley Chapel UMC
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