Hebrews 10:23
Have you ever had someone make fun of you, or laugh, at you because you have chosen to live a Christian life? Have you especially noticed it when you attempt to tell someone about Jesus? Although it may be hard to understand why this happens, we are to try to share what we do know of the Gospel message with those who need it. As we tell them about Jesus, we are to recognize that many will not comprehend what we are telling them. The world we live in today is ruled by the devil. God has given him temporary domain. Jesus described the devil in the following: “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it” (John 8:44). We should not be surprised when the world is full of people who do not see a problem with mocking, laughing, or insulting others – especially when that one has Biblical convictions. We are warned that some will speak lies about those who live faithfully for Jesus. Those people follow the ways of the devil, the prince of the power of the air. However, remember the following: “2. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others” (Ephesians 2:2-3). Keep in mind that you too, before becoming a Christian, walked in the ways of the world. It is then that we should have an even deeper burden to tell them about Jesus. Remember that is what Christians are to do. “14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15. And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:14-15). A preacher here means “to herald (as a public crier) especially divine truth (the Gospel message of Jesus).” All Christians are to tell others about Jesus.
However, some will not hear this message. They feel there is no place in their hearts or minds for the Gospel message of Jesus. Why is this? “3. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Because Satan (the devil) does not want anyone to believe in the glorious Gospel of Christ.
What is one to do in this situation? “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)” (Hebrews 10:23). The word faithful means “constant in the performance of duties or services – like a faithful servant.” In addition, the word faithful means “as God with His promises.” When we understand the faithfulness of God, it helps us as we “hold fast the profession of our faith.” That means we have, and retain, the faith we have of the Gospel of Jesus (that He died to cleanse us from our sin). We are to do this without “wavering.” The word wavering in this verse means “steady, without giving way.” Understanding this should help us not be concerned when others do not understand our desire to live a life pleasing to Jesus. Christians are to remain faithful in our obedience to God and His Word – even when it may seem difficult. There are many examples of faithful Believers listed in Hebrews chapter eleven (the chapter following this verse that reminds us of the importance of holding fast the profession of our faith without wavering). This chapter is often called the “Hall of Faith” because of the many faithful listed there. Anytime one needs encouragement to be faithful, go and reread Hebrews 11 – you cannot help but be encouraged!
Have you committed to be faithful to the Lord, no matter what may happen?
Hold fast! Such a great message in these perilous times! Thank you!
Donna: Praying all Christians will Hold Fast!