S) "28 Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God and acceptable service with reverence and awe; 29 For our God is a consuming fire."
Hebrews 12:28-29 (NASB)
O) This entire chapter is a pretty comprehensive look at what motivates a righteous life. It starts with a prompting to walk sinless with great encouragement. It moves through the discipline of God as our perfect Heavenly Father, then it closes with a look at His holiness. God has always required righteousness from His people, and nothing about His character has changed. As we move through the last two paragraphs of this chapter (vv.18-29), we see that God is just as concerned with our obedience as He ever has been. These last two verses are a reminder that our obedience to Him, our worship (service), our reverence and awe, they actually start from a grateful heart for what He has already done. We should be in awe of His works, understanding that He has already given us more than we could ask, in an unshakeable kingdom (and all the implications of us being part of His kingdom). Furthermore, we must be in awe of Him because He is a consuming fire. That last line almost feels tacked on, as if to remind us that God is not just giving to us, but He is also purging from us. Again, this is harkening back to terms describing God throughout the Old Testament, which affirms again that He had not changed.
A) This entire chapter is heavily convicting. I am guilty of sin, and I sometimes struggle with a feeling of shame, not just for sinning, but that a particular sin still easily entangles me (see v.1). Still, the very last verse is actually a comfort and a hope. So much do I hate the sin in my life, that I pray God would brin it from me, no matter how much that heat would sear. The problem, I suppose, is that I want the fire to consume after I have sinned, and I am less focused on this while I am tempted. I must still remember all of the context, though. My Father hates sin, and so I should expect discipline (v.9). Also, my Father loves me, so I should invite His discipline (vv.10-11). All through this messy process, though, I need to keep my heart set on reverence and awe, and a worship that serves Him. That is the whole purpose of holy living. I am not to be set apart as holy, just for the sake of being separate. I am to be holy, so that I will be His as an instrument in His hands, to do His will.
P) Father God, You are a consuming fire. You require righteousness, because You are righteous. You require holiness, just as You are holy, so that I may do Your will and honor Your name, God. In the light of day, this is my clear heart's desire. Discipline me, Lord. Give me the strength, will, and clarity of mind to walk in righteousness day and night, not only for the sake of clean hands, but that my clean hands may do Your will. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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