S) "13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called 'Today,' so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin."
Hebrews 3:13 (NASB)
O) The writer of Hebrews is not exactly known (commonly thought to be Paul, or one of his close students), so I will refer to him as the Writer. In this chapter, the Writer begins to build two main points. First, it's the case that Jesus is our perfect High Priest. Second, it's the encouragement to persevere in righteousness, to attain the Lord's rest. It is in the case for the second point, that we find the verse above. It is a very straight-forward command, and so short that it's easy to miss that there is actual instruction there. The Writer admonishes us, "Today" to encourage one another. In a way, this verse was almost written with a sort of "meta" that has become common in various media in today's culture, because the Writer is almost aware of the fact that this verse will outlast the original audience. This makes it impossible to minimize the relevance of the command. It's also very specific as to the reason we are to obey: so that we are not hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
A) This has huge implications, and is an excellent reminder of why we need authentic, challenging, vulnerable fellowship with trusted believers. Sin is deceitful, making it very difficult for us to see it clearly in our own lives. In our church, we have Life Groups; handfuls of families meet together every week, apart from Sunday services, to have times of mutual ministry. A very, very important part of that time, is the transparent accountability that we bring to the group, for this exact purpose. We need consistent encouragement, so that the schemes of the enemy become more apparent, and so that the deceitfulness of sin cannot so easily harden our hearts. In times of consistent transparency, when I am confessing - not just sin, but - the temptations and struggles I am facing, I have noticeably more victory in my life, than in the seasons of life when I am not receiving (or giving) consistent, genuine encouragement. Sometimes, I am afraid that I am being needy, when I try to reach out to others, but this verse is such a great encouragement to me! Being in touch with others "day after day" is not too often, but totally biblical! That's not to say that it is a requirement, but if it's possible, I don't see the downside. It still needs to be real. I can't do it for the sake of hype or pretense. As long as it is honest, I think it is good.
P) Father, I am constantly humbled by the goodness of Your designs for my life. It seems so silly, to still be in awe at the flawless way that Your will and plan works, but I am still, just awestruck sometimes! The plan of mutually ministering to, and with, other disciples of Jesus, is such a perfect model to encourage and build each other up in faith, victory, and glory to Your Name. As great as it is, in my own life, to receive that kind of consistent feedback and prayer and encouragement from others, let me be faithful in my ministry to them, as much as I desire to receive from them. As Kristin and I undertake a new Life Group, leading others to this same plan that You have, and the vision that our church has, keep me humble. Let Your will be done, only, as we seek to fulfill the commands You gave us through Your Word. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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