And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Hebrews 6:11-12
This is the danger of not progressing in the disciple’s walk with Jesus. We can become sluggish. We have to move past discussions of Salvation, baptism, repentance and other elementary principals so we can actually practice what we know. Paul speaking for the original church leadership to the gentiles says we desire that each one of you work hard because God will not forget your labor so you can gain full assurance of the faith you practice. This is the way to avoid the risk of growing complacent in our walk and slipping away into an unfruitful life.
As people of faith we need constant assurance that we are on the right path. Like when you are traveling to someplace new and the signs on the highway slowly begin to confirm that you really are headed for the destination you started out for. As we begin to live out our walk with the Lord we keep finding markers along the way to show us we are headed in the right direction. We can gain the full assurance of our conviction by working to progress in our faith so that we don’t take unnecessary detours.
One of the best sources of insights into how to live before God with intense faith is to imitate those who you see accomplishing progression in their own lives. My mother-in-law Ida was one of those that God brought through my life to teach many practical things about ministry and living. For a long time when I was faced with a particularly difficult ministry opportunity I would ask myself what Ida would do and then go from there. Others have been in my life to show me how to gain the promises of God’s healing in my person and to show me how to consistently follow Jesus. I am thankful for their examples to me. I have gained much through imitating their godly lives.
Moving On,
Pastor Jason
No comments:
Post a Comment