Playing with Shadows

Playing with Shadows

Hebrews 8: ³ Every high priest is appointed to present offerings and animal sacrifices to God, and so our High Priest must also have something to offer. ⁴ If he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer the gifts required by the Jewish Law. ⁵ The work they do as priests is really only a copy and a shadow of what is in heaven. It is the same as it was with Moses. When he was about to build the Sacred Tent, God told him, “Be sure to make everything according to the pattern you were shown on the mountain.” ⁶ But now, Jesus has been given priestly work which is superior to theirs, just as the covenant which he arranged between God and his people is a better one, because it is based on promises of better things.

 

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Bored waiting on whatever my parents were doing, I looked around and could not find anything to play with. The sun was shining, so when I raised my hands I noticed the shadow on the floor did the same thing. I decided to play with that. I lifted my foot and the shadow responded. Soon I was making all kinds of things happen with the shadow. But when I got home, I was able to play with real people. It was so much better!

 

• I played with my shadow, but it could not do what a real person could do.
• I was able to make the shadow do what I wanted, but it could not do what I needed.
• I pretended the shadow was enough, but when reality came I felt better.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, compares the activity of human high priests to that of JESUS, the true High Priest. He says that what they do to atone for sins is only a “shadow” of the real thing. What Moses was told to do was only a pattern of the real thing.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is superior to anything I could ever do.
• JESUS is above any “good” act I could ever try.
• JESUS is where I can place all my trust because humans can fall.

 

Pastors, priests and preachers are nice to have, but are full of flaws and sometimes contradictions. I mean, it does not matter who is preaching, there is a part of him or her that is made up of sin. BUT JESUS has no sin. HE can speak worlds into existence because HE has no flaws.

 

JESUS is the “real deal!” What I do for HIM and what others do and say about HIM are only a shadow of the real thing. Shadows are weak and powerless, but they exists. My actions are weak and powerless, but they exist. GOD sees when I mimic HIM and is pleased. I am grateful, GOD turns my weak, shadowlike actions into treasures I can’t imagine.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer compare the actions of a high priest to a shadow?
•  Have you ever done something as a child, then done something similar as an adult and laughed at your childish actions?
• Will you seek JESUS as the real thing to come and keep going with the actions the HOLY SPIRIT leads you to do, knowing you will be rewarded by GOD someday?

No Doubt

No Doubt

Hebrews 8: The whole point of what we are saying is that we have such a High Priest, who sits at the right of the throne of the Divine Majesty in heaven. ² He serves as high priest in the Most Holy Place, that is, in the real tent which was put up by the Lord, not by human hands.

 

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Sitting on the trunk of my car, I just waited. I didn’t know where I was, but I knew I was very far from my apartment, so I couldn’t walk. My car had broke down and I did not have a phone. It was night. Not too long, a couple picked me up and took me to a rest area. They asked me if I knew CHRIST as my Savior.

 

• I was relieved to get some help.
• I was more relieved that someone who believed in CHRIST picked me up.
• I looked back at the situation and saw that the entire rescue was out of my hands.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, seems to address the fallibility of humans. As unreliable as a human can be, they are chosen as priests. But JESUS serves as the one and only High  Priest, who sits at the right hand of GOD. HIS authority is infallible.

 

My Observations:

• When I rely on my abilities I can get scared, BUT GOD has all the power I need.
• When I think there is no way out of a situation I get worried, BUT GOD is there to show HIS power.
• When I doubt that a solution will not come, GOD provides in ways I did not imagine.

 

Doubt is easy to fall into. I mean, when trouble arises and my abilities seem to be lacking, I worry about how the situation will clear itself up. I replay the trouble and try to come up with a plan, but reality hits and I see that my abilities to solve the situation are far away. BUT GOD steps in and provides.

 

HE places me in situations where only HIS power can solve them. HE then shows me that I can rely on HIS power to solve any problem, if I believe HE can and will do it HIS way. HE always comes through in HIS way and HIS time. I am glad I can place my full trust in HIM with no doubt.

 

Challenge

• What is the “point” the writer is trying to make?
• Have you ever needed something and felt it was impossible to get what you need?
• Will you place your full trust in GOD and know HE has your situation in mind so you can get rid of any doubt today?

Imperfect to Perfect

 

Imperfect to Perfect

Hebrews 7: ²⁶ Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him; he has been set apart from sinners and raised above the heavens. ²⁷ He is not like other high priests; he does not need to offer sacrifices every day for his own sins first and then for the sins of the people. He offered one sacrifice, once and for all, when he offered himself. ²⁸ The Law of Moses appoints men who are imperfect to be high priests; but God's promise made with the vow, which came later than the Law, appoints the Son, who has been made perfect forever.

 

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Being the boss for the first time felt cool and scary at the same time. I relied on a few mentors to provide advice. “What do I do about this situation?” or “What do I do about that situation?” were my constant questions. An external observer approached me and said “At some point, you will have to let go of your mentor.”

 

• I was dependent on something familiar.
• I was nervous about taking on the responsibility.
• I felt better being told what to do.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, mentions JESUS meeting our needs versus human high priests. JESUS, who remained faultless, sacrificed himself. He did what imperfect high priests could not do, be perfect forever.

 

My Observations:

• I try to control GOD by following the Law, BUT GOD loves when I rely on JESUS.
• I try to be holy by following the Law, BUT GOD enjoys when I place my faith in HIM.
• I try to get close to GOD by doing what the Law says, BUT GOD is faithful and saved me through JESUS.

 

After the Law was given, JESUS died for all the sins of humans. HE fulfilled the Law to the letter. I can turn from the Law and place my faith in something perfect, namely JESUS. I mean, when I break one Law, I am guilty of breaking all of them. JESUS made a way for me to be forgiven of the statutes of the Law.

 

This does not give me freedom to sin as I please. HE loves when I use one part of the fruit of the Spirit which is “self-control.” Being able to recognize I need a Savior every day makes me hand my sinful desires over to HIM so we can have a harmonious relationship. I am glad HE is helping me not depend on the Law, and to place my faith in HIS act of love.

 

Challenge

• What problem is the writer trying to address?
• Have you ever needed to use “faith” but were reliant on a person or money or something else?
• Will you place your faith in JESUS, who “meets our needs” and loves you dearly today?

Now and Always

 

Now and Always

Hebrews 7: ²³ There is another difference: there were many of those other priests, because they died and could not continue their work. ²⁴ But Jesus lives on forever, and his work as priest does not pass on to someone else. ²⁵ And so he is able, now and always, to save those who come to God through him, because he lives forever to plead with God for them.

 

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Looking around for my building materials, I found the perfect items that would “last.” I got an old blanket and some sticks I found to use as the poles of my tent. I then found some rocks that would stabilize the bottom of the tent. “This is invincible” I thought to myself. The next day I went out to enjoy the tent, only to find it laying flat and wet. It had rained and my flimsy design did not last.

 

• I thought the thing “I” built would last.
• I thought I had built something strong when it was really very weak.
• I thought I had built something permanent, but it did not last a day.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, points out a difference between JESUS and human priests. JESUS, after the resurrection, would never die. Human priests, were susceptible to death, therefore their ability to plea to GOD on behalf of everyone was limited.

 

My Observations:

• My belief in JESUS’ power to forgive me gives me eternal life.
• If a question were to come up later about my sin, JESUS would always be three to say I am forgiven.
• There is no sin I have committed, or will ever commit, that will break my relationship with JESUS.

 

When JESUS saved me it was permanent. I mean, sometimes I think that if I temporarily act “good” then my salvation is in “my” hands. I could not be further from the truth. JESUS saved me in the middle of my sin, while I was committing them. HE also knew I could not stay on my diet of being good, so HE decided to do something a little more permanent.

 

HIS death, burial and resurrection became the covenant that made me and you able to be saved forever. HE forgives me retrospectively and perpetually . In other words, “all” my sins are forgiven! I am glad I have a permanent relationship with the one who saves, namely JESUS!.

 

Challenge

• What work is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever made a plan that turned out to be flimsy and it fell apart?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS, who can save you in this life and the next, today?

Sacred Authority

Sacred Authority

Hebrews 7: ²⁰ In addition, there is also God's vow. There was no such vow when the others were made priests. ²¹ But Jesus became a priest by means of a vow when God said to him,

“The Lord has made a solemn promise
    and will not take it back:
‘You will be a priest forever.’”

²² This difference, then, also makes Jesus the guarantee of a better covenant.

 

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When a peer became my boss, I did not recognize it. I mean, this guy did not know as much  as “me”, nor was he talented. I ignored his meeting invites and his attempts to “tell me what to do.” After a while, his boss asked me to listen to him.

 

• I did not recognize his authority.
• I rejected his title over me.
• I did not believe I could receive any consequence to ignoring his authority.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, get’s serious about the authority of JESUS. GOD made a vow that JESUS would be a priest forever, unlike humans who were born into the priesthood or ordained by other humans. This priesthood is unlike human priesthood because it holds all things sacred to GOD.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave JESUS all authority to uphold holiness.
• I can choose to ignore the importance of holiness, BUT GOD loves when I embrace it.
• My sin nature abhors GOD’s holiness, BUT JESUS fixed my relationship with HIM.

 

Being a priest represents upholding sacred things to GOD. Unfortunately, human priests have taken advantage of the position with their own sinful lusts. This weakens how humans see what is important to GOD. BUT GOD made a vow that JESUS would be a priest forever. HE and HE alone can uphold all things sacred to GOD.

 

One important thing that JESUS did for me and you is provide forgiveness for sins. Ignoring the importance of this sacred act does not diminish its importance. JESUS is the official being who is allowed to forgive. I gladly bow to HIS authority.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer explain “a better covenant?”
• Have you ever questioned the authority of JESUS or anyone who is in charge?
• Will you recognize the authority of JESUS and learn what is sacred to GOD so you can follow HIM today?

A Better Hope

 

A Better Hope

Hebrews 7: ¹⁵ The matter becomes even plainer; a different priest has appeared, who is like Melchizedek. ¹⁶ He was made a priest, not by human rules and regulations, but through the power of a life which has no end. ¹⁷ For the scripture says, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” ¹⁸ The old rule, then, is set aside, because it was weak and useless. ¹⁹ For the Law of Moses could not make anything perfect. And now a better hope has been provided through which we come near to God.

 

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Trying to fix my car, I looked around my apartment to use what I had. I found a coat hanger that could be used as my bandage. I worked hard carefully bending the coat hanger into the shape I thought would work. I started the car and took off, proud of my solution. Weeks later, the coat hanger broke. It couldn’t handle the stress.

 

• I placed my hope in something temporary.
• I thought of the solution and I was proud.
• I had to keep going back to the temporary solution until I got it fixed permanently.

 

Paul, the assume writer, labels the Law of Moses as the “Old Rule.” He then says it could not make anything perfect. Before people lost hope, he then comes back and says three is “a better hope.”

 

My Observations:

• My hope in myself or other humans can be faulty, but when I place my hope in GOD, it is permanent.
• My hope fails when I put it in money, jobs or businesses, but when I trust in the LORD, my hope stands forever.
• My hope falls apart when I look at circumstances out of my control, but when I give my hope to JESUS, I understand that HE will work out all things for HIS good and to my favor.

 

Placing hope in the world may cause me to make some terrible decisions for myself and for other people. I mean, I may place my hope in the pleasures of this world to resolve the pain I may be going through. This may help temporarily, but the pain comes back, sometimes more intensely.

 

GOD wants me to have a permanent solution to all my problems. HE wants me prepared for difficulties, versus ready to wilt at even the lightest of problems. HE wants me to have “a better hope” which is in CHRIST JESUS. I gladly place my hope in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What hope is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever placed your hope in money or relationships, or jobs and lost that hope?
• Will you take your hope off of temporary things and place it on something permanent and everlasting, namely JESUS, who loves you and cares about this life and the everlasting one?

Different Thinking

 

Different Thinking

Hebrews 7: ¹¹ It was on the basis of the levitical priesthood that the Law was given to the people of Israel. Now, if the work of the levitical priests had been perfect, there would have been no need for a different kind of priest to appear, one who is in the priestly order of Melchizedek,^[a] not of Aaron. ¹² For when the priesthood is changed, there also has to be a change in the law. ¹³ And our Lord, of whom these things are said, belonged to a different tribe, and no member of his tribe ever served as a priest. ¹⁴ It is well known that he was born a member of the tribe of Judah; and Moses did not mention this tribe when he spoke of priests.

 

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“Why go to church?” was my question. I finally got tired of the same messages of “being good” or “giving money.” There had to be more to life that what was being said. I stopped going and started “having fun.” My “fun” became more of a problem than I thought.

 

• I did not have a place to put my hope.
• I did not fill the hole that was in my heart.
• I had to rethink “church” versus my relationship with GOD.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, may have tried to address a way of thinking that could have been detrimental to many. People may have relied on a human priest to cleanse them of their sins through confession and sacrifice. He explained, there is a “different kind of priest”, one who did not belong to the tribe of priests, who would be the one to follow.

 

My Observations:

• Humans struggle trying to understand GOD, BUT HE reveals enough to show me HIS love.
• Love is greater than keeping the law, because the law was founded by love.
• I do not have to worry about trying to be perfect, because JESUS was perfect for me.

 

Blaming GOD or blaming people who believe in GOD is a problem. I mean, when I question why GOD does things, or I question those who are supposed to believe in GOD, yet act duplicitous, I can fall away from HIM. BUT GOD knows there are many things that can come up against my relationship with HIM.

 

HE patiently allows me to fall into holes that I think can pull me away from HIM. HE gently lifts me up and dusts me off to serve HIM and praise HIM another day. I am glad HE is willing to renew my mind and show me HIS love!

 

Challenge

• What way of thinking is the writer trying to address?
• Have you ever tried to blame GOD or blame “churchy” people?
• Will you look at GOD’s love and think differently about how you approach church and the beliefs you may or may not have today?

Great Blessings

Great Blessings

Hebrews 7: ⁴ You see, then, how great he was. Abraham, our famous ancestor, gave him one tenth of all he got in the battle. ⁵ And those descendants of Levi who are priests are commanded by the Law to collect one tenth from the people of Israel, that is, from their own people, even though they are also descendants of Abraham. ⁶ Melchizedek was not descended from Levi, but he collected one tenth from Abraham and blessed him, the man who received God's promises. ⁷ There is no doubt that the one who blesses is greater than the one who is blessed. 

 

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A customer left a great rating about my service. I was honored to receive the rating and realized how much the good word meant to other people. My service was not as important as the rating received because other people believed in the ratings.

 

• I was the recipient of a blessing.
• My word about my company was not as powerful as my customer’s word.
• I wanted “my” word to be enough, but it took the blessing of a customer to get others to believe.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke highly of Abraham. He mentions that Abraham was “famous”, yet still gave Melchizedek one tenth of all he collected in battle. The writer goes on to mention that priests still follow this example, showing the greatness of the act. He then closes with speaking about greatness.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS has blessed me to be one of HIS servants.
• I can never be greater than JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be a servant, which will translate to HIM declaring me as “great.”

 

The first will be last and last will be first” is one of JESUS’ promises. HE sees “greatness” when I follow HIS example by serving those who do not look or act like me. Even when I fall, JESUS is great enough to pick me up and use me for HIS good.

 

Feeling blessed is different than being declared blessed. I mean, when JESUS mentions “blessed are the…” HE is talking about me and you. HE is greater than us and pours out HIS blessings on us. I gladly accept HIS blessings today.

 

Challenge

• What blessing is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever had a reference or a referral from someone who spoke highly of you?
• Will you speak highly of someone so he or she can see JESUS and accept HIS great blessings today?

Forever Remembered

Forever Remembered

Hebrews 7: This Melchizedek was king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God. As Abraham was coming back from the battle in which he defeated the four kings, Melchizedek met him and blessed him, ² and Abraham gave him one tenth of all he had taken. (The first meaning of Melchizedek's name is “King of Righteousness”; and because he was king of Salem, his name also means “King of Peace.”) ³ There is no record of Melchizedek's father or mother or of any of his ancestors; no record of his birth or of his death. He is like the Son of God; he remains a priest forever.

 

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Encountering a stranger, I remember a guy wearing sunglasses, driving an expensive sports car, zipping in front of people and giving them “the finger” as he passed each. This enraged me, but I could not catch him.

 

• I remember how his actions affected me.
• I did not stop to think how my actions affect other people.
• I realized later that I want to be remembered differently than that.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains Melchizedek, who was a king and a high priest. No one knew when he was bon or when he died. He represents how JESUS has no beginning or end. Melchizedek is remembered for his goodness.

 

My Observations:

• Every action I do is either for GOD’s kingdom or against it.
• I have the opportunity to speak about GOD or to do harm to myself and others.
• I can choose what I want people to remember me by.

 

JESUS said “Remember ME.” This mean remember HIS goodness and HIS love. HE faced insurmountable odds by not sinning and at the same time, healing a multitude of people. HIS deeds and words are remembered forever. But what about you and me? GOD has us too.

 

If I give a child a cup of cool water to drink, GOD remember my kindness and loves it! HE enjoys the smallest of service I perform, even if it is just a smile. GOD sees anything I do for HIM and remembers it forever. I am glad GOD cares for you and me.

 

Challenge

• According to the writer, what is Melchizedek remembered by?
• Have you ever wanted to “act out” in public, only to regret what people will remember you by?
• Will you not worry about your reputation and simply serve the way GOD wants you to serve by encouraging someone today?

Safe and Sure

 

Safe and Sure

Hebrews 6: ¹⁸ There are these two things, then, that cannot change and about which God cannot lie. So we who have found safety with him are greatly encouraged to hold firmly to the hope placed before us. ¹⁹ We have this hope as an anchor for our lives. It is safe and sure, and goes through the curtain of the heavenly temple into the inner sanctuary. ²⁰ On our behalf Jesus has gone in there before us and has become a high priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.

 

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Wanting to be “rich”, I asked a rich person for investment advice. He told me about investing in  penny stocks. I tried it by investing in a random company. I watched the stock go up and my hope was elated. But when the stock went down, my hope receded. I did not sell fast enough and lost the amount I invested.

 

• My hope was based on the performance of a hunch.
• My hope was placed in the thought of getting money.
• My hope was not stable because money would come and go.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, concludes his discussion about GOD’s promises being reliable. Since the purpose of GOD does not change, we can place our hope in HIM. This hope is strong enough to go into the inner sanctuary of GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Hope is important enough to GOD that HE observes it to see if HE is at the center of it.
• Prayer is something that is important to GOD, so much so, that HE keeps each hope filled prayer in a spiritual bowl.
• Faith is something important to GOD and HE looks at it in measures and rewards me for when I exercise it.

 

Humans value money, fame and power. BUT GOD values hope, prayer and faith. These conflict with one another. I mean, when I try to use human methods to “feel” better, I can leave GOD out of the equation and rely on my own plans and abilities. When things go terribly wrong, I lose hope. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

HE wants me to place my hope in JESUS, who was sinless and died to redeem the world. The tactic of not believing in “sin” or of having “my” truth will not stand up in front of the Living GOD. Only JESUS, who is the High Priest, will have the last word on all that I do. HE will examine my hope, prayers and faith and will deem me as being clean. I am glad I can place my hop in HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer urge you to do?
• Have you ever placed your hope in money or a person or a job and been disappointed?
• Will you place your hope in JESUS, so it can be sternal and know HE has the best for you today?

Unchanged Purpose

Unchanged Purpose

Hebrews 6: ¹⁶ When we make a vow, we use the name of someone greater than ourselves, and the vow settles all arguments. ¹⁷ To those who were to receive what he promised, God wanted to make it very clear that he would never change his purpose; so he added his vow to the promise.

 

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When the new leadership arrived, the place felt different. New policies were provided in orientations and the same people I used to work with had now changed. The purpose behind my job was now different.

 

• I felt there was a “bait” and “switch” happening.
• I did not like change, especially when it did not seem to benefit me or my coworkers.
• It seemed like top management needed an excuse for changing things, and all of us would “lose.”

 

Paul, the assumed writer, spoke about “GOD’s unchanging purpose. GOD made a vow based on HIS own name since there is no one greater than HIM. HE revealed this vow to humans to give assurance that HE would keep HIS promise. GOD wanted to make it clear that HE has a purpose that will never change.

 

My Observations:

• GOD will never ever change HIS purpose, namely to save the lost.
• GOD will always love me because I believe in HIS SON, JESUS, who sacrificed HIMSELF just to be with me.
• GOD does not change HIS mind or switch HIS purpose when I, or others, do something wrong.

 

Humans play the “change the rules” game all the time. I mean, when life gets uncomfortable, simply change the rules until comfort fits, even if it means throwing out GOD’s word. Unfortunately, true “comfort” and “peace” are owned by GOD, so walking away from HIS statutes leaves me guessing, lying to myself, hurt or dead. GOD doesn’t want this.

 

HE made promises to always be with me and to guide me, even through difficult times. HE promised to live inside me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness when I confess I need HIM. I am glad HE reveals HIS love for me daily and I am willing to follow HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does GOD make “very clear” according to the writer?
• Have you ever felt GOD’s conditions for you can change based on how much or how little you sin?
• Have you thrown out GOD’s ways because it does not follow “your” relative truth?
• Will you seek GOD’s unchanging ways so HE can make you whole and to change the course of your life today?

Reason for Promise

 

Reason for Promise

Hebrews 6: ¹³ When God made his promise to Abraham, he made a vow to do what he had promised. Since there was no one greater than himself, he used his own name when he made his vow. ¹⁴ He said, “I promise you that I will bless you and give you many descendants.” ¹⁵ Abraham was patient, and so he received what God had promised. 

 

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“I will pick you up at 7” were the words I depended on. But when 7 rolled around, I was not picked up. “Oh my goodness, I forgot” was the real, but hurtful statement.

 

• I felt let down.
• I was a little frustrated.
• I wanted to say something, but had nothing to say.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, mentions a promise made to Abraham. He also provides assurance that GOD’s promises are so great, that nothing can stop it. Abraham received GOD’s blessing, only because GOD was faithful.

 

My Observations:

• When I need assurance, GOD gives me HIS promises.
• When I feel lost and alone, GOD promises to be with me.
• When I need encouragement, GOD is there to promise HIS delivery.

 

GOD has nothing to prove. I mean, HE is the most powerful, all knowing being who lives everywhere. I believe the reason HE promises so much, is to give us assurance that HE will remain with us even when we don’t believe it.

 

HIS love is powerful and HIS grace sufficient. HE can and will do HIS plan , and nothing, now anyone can stop it. I am glad GOD promises to love me and there is nothing that can change it!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention Abraham’s promise?
• Have you ever been disappointed when someone promised you something but did not keep the promise?
• Have you ever broken your promise?
• Will you consider that GOD’s plan for you is great and unwavering, so you can have assurance today?

Eagerness

 

Eagerness

Hebrews 6: ⁹ But even if we speak like this, dear friends, we feel sure about you. We know that you have the better blessings that belong to your salvation. ¹⁰ God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. ¹¹ Our great desire is that each of you keep up your eagerness to the end, so that the things you hope for will come true. ¹² We do not want you to become lazy, but to be like those who believe and are patient, and so receive what God has promised.

 

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On the first day of my assignment, I could hardly sleep. I woke up before the alarm, and made my way in early. But after a while, I got used to the assignment. I woke up to the alarm and hit the snooze button a couple of times. I didn’t race to get there and when I arrived, I had to do my ritual of getting coffee and chatting with people.

 

• My eagerness had worn off.
• I was not as enthusiastic as I was in the beginning.
• I had become slow to jump into anything “new” because I was comfortable.

 

Paul, the assumed writer” spoke about “better blessings” that belonged to believers in JESUS for salvation. He tried to encourage everyone that GOD sees all actions and will not forget any work don for HIM or any love shown to another person for HIM. He urges everyone to remain “eager” to the end so hope can be achieved.

 

My Observations

• I have to remember that GOD is quite fair in HIS dealings with me.
• I also have to note that GOD sees my work and love I have shown and HE is pleased with it.
• Knowing HE is pleased with my actions makes me continue with my eagerness to serve HIM.

 

Giving up on unmet desires is tempting. I mean, when I have worked hard on something and have not realized the expected benefit, I may get discouraged and give up. BUT GOD saw my work and is pleased.

 

HE doesn’t just show up to tell me I did stuff wrong. In fact, quite the opposite. HE is excited that I try to serve HIM even though I have a sin nature to overcome. HE guides me to meet the desires of my heart that align to HIS will. I am grateful that GOD cares enough about me to give me what HE has promised.

 

Challenge

• What “better blessings” is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever felt discouraged and thought GOD was mad at you?
• Will you understand that HE is excited about what you have done and are doing for HIM and wants you to continue with eagerness nd patience today?

Heart Soil

Heart Soil

Hebrews 6: ⁷ God blesses the soil which drinks in the rain that often falls on it and which grows plants that are useful to those for whom it is cultivated. ⁸ But if it grows thorns and weeds, it is worth nothing; it is in danger of being cursed by God and will be destroyed by fire.

 

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“Ha, ha, you don’t even know how to curse right” were the words that fueled me to learn how to curse “right.” I practiced my foul language and got it down to a science. After a while, I was listening t how comedians used this language in jokes. I soaked in every word I could listen to.

 

• The more garbage I listened to, the more desensitized I became.
• I used foul language to joke, but eventually used it to increase the level of an argument.
• I wound up expressing frustration with foul language and brushed it off to “everyone else uses it.”

 

Paul the assumed writer, gives two types of soil, one that grows useful plants and one that grows thorns and weeds. Rather than looking at this as farming tips, Paul may have been speaking about the condition of the heart.

 

My Observations

• Things that are placed in my heart will grow into something good or something terrible.
• GOD wants to place HIS word in my heart, but if I have filled it with the garbage of the world, there will be no room for HIM to live.
• GOD gets excited when I listen to HIM and HE grows “plants that are useful” from me listening to HIM.

 

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control are all things that can grow from my heart when I listen to GOD. I mean, when I follow HIS ways, the fruit of the SPIRIT overflows from my heart.  Unfortunately, the opposite happens when I purposefully disobey HIM.

 

When I put the world in my heart, it grows greed, hatred, lust, blame and unhealthy self-consciousness that reverberates through all I do. Lies appear to be real and the false Utopia of the world crashes down on me. BUT GOD cleans my heart and cultivates a place where HE can live and grow me. I am glad GOD chooses to stay with me.

 

Challenge

• What soil sticks out to you from the writer?
• Have you ever wanted to stop a behavior, but didn’t see how to?
• Have you checked your heart to see if you have fallen?
• Will you allow GOD to cleanse your heart HIS way so you can bear fruit for HIM today?

Different Than a Tantrum

 

Different Than a Tantrum

Hebrews 6: ⁴ For how can those who abandon their faith be brought back to repent again? They were once in God's light; they tasted heaven's gift and received their share of the Holy Spirit; ⁵ they knew from experience that God's word is good, and they had felt the powers of the coming age. ⁶ And then they abandoned their faith! It is impossible to bring them back to repent again, because they are again crucifying the Son of God and exposing him to public shame.

 

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“I’m not going to serve YOU anymore” was my threat to GOD. I was tired of the hypocrites and saw no difference from those who were supposed to be “good” and those who were supposed to be “sinners.” And it didn’t seem like I was any better off trying this “GOD” stuff. I was still broke, alone and failing.

 

• I threw a tantrum and left GOD.
• I wanted to try “pleasure” as a way to cope with the burdens of life.
• I gave up following GOD to try something different and ended up worse off.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, asks a very deep rhetorical question. “For how can those who abandon their faith be brought back to repent again?” He was not speaking about falling into temptation, rather walking away from believing in JESUS as the Savior for some other belief. It means there was a clear understanding of the faith in JESUS and a choice to not believe.

 

My Observations

• My salvation began before the beginning of the world.
• Once I accept CHRIST as my Savior, I am eternally saved.
• Even when I throw a tantrum and try to stop serving GOD, HE is still with me.

 

Abandoning the faith is different than throwing a tantrum. I mean, when I am not getting “my” way, I may try to force GOD’s hand to make thing happen the way I think they should. This is not a good practice, but HE gently guides me back to HIM. But what about those who pretend to be saved?

 

Whether it is for fitting in or it felt like the right thing to do at the time, but now this other thing feels like the right thing to do, these people publicly abandoned faith in JESUS. In pondering this, it could mean that the initial “belief” was not belief, rather a possible deception. GOD knows who is HIS and HE will never leave those who believe in HIM. I am glad GOD forgives my tantrums and brings me back to the faith.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean by “Abandon the faith?”
• Have you ever wanted to stop following GOD because you were not getting your way?
• Will you check your relationship with GOD by understanding the foundation of JESUS as your Savior, so you can focus on HIS growth HE has for you today?

Going Forward

Going Forward

Hebrews 6: Let us go forward, then, to mature teaching and leave behind us the first lessons of the Christian message. We should not lay again the foundation of turning away from useless works and believing in God; ² of the teaching about baptisms and the laying on of hands; of the resurrection of the dead and the eternal judgment. ³ Let us go forward! And this is what we will do, if God allows.

 

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After learning my numbers, I was proud that I could count. But the next grade taught me addition and subtraction. Grades beyond taught me multiplication, division, percentages, arithmetic, pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, pre-calculus (or trigonometry), calculus, and differential equations (Thermal dynamic heat equations).

 

• I could not imagine sitting in a class to learn how to count.
• I struggled with the other lessons and some I failed.
• Once I finished learning one concept, it was on to the next.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, urges believers to “go forward” from the basic lesson of salvation of JESUS. He implies that there is more to learn about JESUS than, salvation, baptism, and the resurrection.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is far greater than eternal life.
• JESUS cares about the life I live now and the life I will live in eternity.
• JESUS is more complex that I think and I should learn about HIM daily.

 

“Does GOD even care?” is the question I have asked many times. I mean, when things seem to be going horribly wrong it, is tough to rely on the promise that I am saved for eternity. “What about this horrible situation?”  I would ask. GOD hears and addresses everything.

 

HE cares about my current life and the life beyond this life. HE knows what I am going through and has empathy through JESUS who was tempted in every way. HE cares about the large and small and is involved in every moment of my life. I am glad GOD cares about me holistically.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer use “go forward?”
• Have you ever learned the basics of something and found yourself in the basic class again?
• How did you feel?
• Will you “go forward from salvation, baptism, and the resurrection, and learn how GOD interacts with you daily so you can mature in faith today?

By Now

 

By Now

Hebrews 5: ¹¹ There is much we have to say about this matter, but it is hard to explain to you, because you are so slow to understand. ¹² There has been enough time for you to be teachers—yet you still need someone to teach you the first lessons of God's message. Instead of eating solid food, you still have to drink milk. ¹³ Anyone who has to drink milk is still a child, without any experience in the matter of right and wrong. ¹⁴ Solid food, on the other hand, is for adults, who through practice are able to distinguish between good and evil.

 

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Sitting back and listening to the leader, I had many suggestions for improvement. One day, someone approached me and said, “When are you going to lead?”” The challenge felt like an insult at first, but eventually I wrapped my head around the concept and became a leader of a small group of people. It was harder than I thought.

 

• I had to learn while I was expected to be the teacher.
• I had to grow in ways I never would have imagined.
• I had to get out of my comfort zone and step into the spotlight, receiving the criticism instead of dishing it out.

 

“When will you grow up?” were the implied words from Paul, the assumed writer. He urged those who have been taught about JESUS to grow in spiritual maturity enough to teach instead of always being taught.

 

My Observations

• Solid food is for adults and GOD wants me to grow to eat it.
• Life is difficult so GOD wants me to be able to face it with HIS ways, which equates to “solid food.”
• Going to church can become a habit, BUT GOD wants me to grow up enough to take on responsibility outside being preached to.

 

“Act your age” is what the old folks used to say, meaning “by now you should be growing away from childish behavior.” It doesn’t feel good to be responsible for something, especially as precious as life after death. BUT GOD has given humans the responsibility to spread the Gospel versus always absorbing it.

 

GOD wants you and me to eventually grow up enough to teach, preach and live the Good news about JESUS. HE wants to give “solid food” to be able to bring people back to HIMSELF. I gladly accept the responsibility HE gives me and pray HE guides me to growth.

 

Challenge

• What are the “first lessons” the writer is speaking about?
• Have you ever imagined yourself in a perpetual kindergarten?
• Do you expect to always learn without ever teaching?
• Will you accept GOD’s growth and begin teaching HIS “solid food” today?

Unexpected Answer

Unexpected Answer

Hebrews 5: ⁷ In his life on earth Jesus made his prayers and requests with loud cries and tears to God, who could save him from death. Because he was humble and devoted, God heard him. ⁸ But even though he was God's Son, he learned through his sufferings to be obedient. ⁹ When he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him, ¹⁰ and God declared him to be high priest, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.

 

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“LORD please take this problem away” was my cry. I had just started following GOD’s ways and it seemed like my request went unheard. Eventually I stopped crying out because it seemed like things were just not going to change.

 

• I wanted “my” way.
• I wanted the problem to be solved the way I thought it should.
• I wanted a solution to “my” trial to be put in place where, when and how I thought it should.

 

Paul, the assumed author is revealed that even JESUS cried out, wanting something else to happen, but did not get that desire fulfilled. HE was willing to die, but did not want to go through the agony of death, nor be blamed for every sin. HE wanted to be saved from death. BUT GOD had another answer to HIS cry.

 

My Observations

• I don’t want to go through the pain and agony of life, BUT GOD allows it so I can do something greater
• I cry out to GOD to take away any pain that I or anyone I know may go through, BUT GOD understands why I need to go through pain versus going around it.
• I ask GOD to take away any trial, trouble or tribulation, BUT GOD has a purpose for anything I go through and it always ends up better than I expected.

 

Let me say out loud that growing up is hard! I mean, when I have to go through pain, I usually want to whine about it and tell a lot of people about the agony I am going through in hopes of comfort or sympathy. BUT GOD has a different plan that grows me up from being a child, spiritually.

 

HE takes me through the trial instead of me going around it. HE does something better… HE goes through the trial with me. JESUS went through pain, suffering and agony, just for you and me. HIS obedience “taught” HIM that the pain would be worth it because the bigger plan would save everyone. I am grateful that JESUS stayed the course, so maybe I should too.

 

Challenge

• What thing was “learned” as the writer puts it?
• Have you ever gone through a trial and realized you were better off because of it?
• Will you look to GOD and know HE has the best plan for you to grow your faith and to prosper you to HIS rewards today?