Day 12
Start with Posture of Silence and Solitude (2 minutes)
Read Scripture: Hebrews 6:1-12
Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so.
It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
Devotional:
This reading is taken in context with the prior verses which explain the importance of growing in our faith just as a baby must transition from milk to solid food to continue to grow. The author urges us to move beyond the basics of our faith and enhance our belief. Otherwise we may be in danger of falling away when troubles mount. He urges us to stand fast diligently to our good works and love for others so that our hope won for us by Jesus will be complete.
Question to Ponder:
Where are the places in my life that God may be trying to grow me?
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, you are the author and perfecter of my faith. Lead me in the practices I need to follow in order to enlarge your place in my heart. Teach me your ways more fully. Help me to put these into practice daily. Lord, I love you and want to be nearer to you. May the hope I have in you be increased as I go through this Holy Season. Amen.
End with Posture of Silence and Solitude (2 minutes)