that you won’t be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and perseverance inherited the promises. Hebrews 6:12 WEB
Paul takes a serious tone with the Hebrew believers in his previous statements. He warns of the fate of those who have believed and fallen away. Saying in Hebrews 6:6, “it is impossible to renew them again to repentance; seeing they crucify the Son of God for themselves again and put him to open shame. WEB” Paul shares his concern for those who do not take salvation seriously encouraging his readers to actively develop in Christ through faith and perseverance.
There is a danger that our reliance on God’s forgiveness leads some to believe that they are getting away with their transgressions. If we can sin without consequence, then why should we behave in a righteous way? Paul answers this question in Romans 6:1-2 saying, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? May it never be! We who died to sin, how could we live in it any longer? WEB”
The feeling of the chapter changes in Hebrews 6:9 which reads, “But, beloved, we are persuaded of better things for you, and things that accompany salvation, even though we speak like this. WEB” Paul is guiding the church into a more active and faithful service to the kingdom of heaven.
Actively Guard Your Faith
His words concerning faith and perseverance are meant to encourage believers to develop and mature in their faith. Rather than being dull and sluggish, Paul’s words urge the church to greater activity, diligence, and concern for maintaining their faithful service. He is urging them to guard themselves against falling away from the faith as some have already done.
As faithful Christians, we should guard our hearts against critics of the faith. We should pray and study the word of God to keep our devotion active and alive. The word of God is the seed of our faith.
Christ says in Matthew 13:8, “Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. WEB” To be productive for the kingdom of God, we must be that good soil. We must receive his word and actively put it into practice in our lives.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the guidance of your holy scriptures. Thank you for reminding me to remain active through faith and perseverance. Forgive me for the times when I have fallen short. Guide my steps as I grow in faith, understanding, and service. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Seek First God’s Kingdom
