As a New Year dawns, many will make new resolutions, hoping to effect change. Believers in Yahshua can trust Him to prompt change, and rest in the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish that inner work. Recently, however, I found a scripture outlining some precious encouragement which seemed perfect to reflect upon as we enter a New Year. “Let us draw near to [Yahweh] with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings…Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds” [Hebrews10:22-24]. So let’s reflect.
Draw near: Throughout the ages, men and women have shared the wonder of intimacy, crying with the Psalmist, “But it is good for me to draw near to [Yahweh]…” [Psalm 73:28]. We learn different ways of ‘drawing near’ during our life with Him. Cultivate those things which work for you now; plan to spend a little time each day simply ‘being near’! Don’t be contented with thinking or singing or praying about it, but “…fling every hindering thing to the winds, and get up and do so” [Amy Carmichael].
Hold fast: There are many distractions in today’s world, but the writer to the Hebrews urges us to hold unswervingly to our hope! Our promise of eternal life and a place in the Kingdom of Heaven comes from One with a reputation for dependability! “Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave…” [1 Kings 8:56]. Don’t be distracted!
Consider one another: We can be so caught up with our own journey and circumstances, we fail to consider how to affect others for good! The writer urges us to spur on [provoke, stimulate, encourage] one another, primarily, to love! Isn’t that a ‘pause for thought’ moment? Love is first and foremost, and there’s effort involved! How can I encourage others to love? By loving them, perhaps? Let’s think about it! And surely ‘good deeds’ will flow out from a heart of love.
As you walk into 2023, draw near, hold fast, and consider others.
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1 timothy 3:16 NIV - Beyond all question, the mystery from - Bible Gateway
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