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Living Forward through Jesus!
Rod ShimabukuroBut we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. Hebrews 10:39
We need to understand that the author of Hebrews never intended his readers to become good, moral people. The big theme is Jesus as the focus, center and answer to our eternal purpose and salvation. Verse 39 instructs us to make a heart decision to endure and not live backwards, but forward...persevering in Christ!
The priority for us as Christians is to have a confidence in Jesus, not our works or efforts of enduring.
[19] Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, [20] by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, [21] and since we have a great priest over the house of God, [22] let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:19-23
Because Jesus promised, Jesus is faithful, by the blood of Jesus, by the new way He opened as High Priest --- we can have confidence in Him and not shrink back.
Perseverance and Endurance are essential to the Christian life. I see the author of Hebrews emphasizing the grace of our new covenant promise through Christ. His blood, the work of His cross, His grace and mercy... leads me to make great and godly decisions.
I’m discovering that the balance between making good moral choices and faith in Jesus can feel like a tightrope walk. I want to and need to make good, Godly choices. But I can become a “works oriented” Christian - no different from good, Non Christian people who desire to live good, moral lives.
I want to live differently by living forward, not backwards. I want to be a Christ follower who perseveres, knowing where my help, strength and wisdom comes from.
Dear Daddie God, Jesus and Spirit of mercy!
How i long to live forward, with confidence and never shrinking back on the convictions you are developing in me. I love You all and honor each of You as God! Thank you for revealing Your Word to my heart, helping me to rightly observe and interpret it for Your glory!
