Oh, the advice in this section is good. Because we truly are surrounded by incredible witnesses to God’s faithfulness from the Bible and from our own life experiences, let’s take courage and be like them ourselves. This whole letter to the Hebrews has urged us not to look at circumstances or legalistic “rules” but to look at Jesus Himself – Glorious Son of God – God in Flesh – King of kings. He is the One we follow. Because He wanted us with Him (an impossibility without His sacrifice) … He chose the cross.
So when hard times come (and they will) we are urged to receive them as a “disciplining” from God. He refines us through allowing hard things. Our faith grows under trials and troubles more than when all goes easily and instantly the way we want it to go. And it’s a sweet reminder that anything God allows is going to eventually be used for great good. “For the LORD disciplines those he loves …” (vs 6). I also love looking at the rewards of being disciplined. Hebrews 12:10 assures us it’s so “we might share in his holiness”. WOW. He wants us to be sanctified and set apart for His glory and when we submit to trials with a trusting heart, we become more holy. Hebrews 12:11 adds these words of blessing: “ … But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” The end result is not turmoil or despair. It’s a right living peace. A “shalom” kind of peace where we are wholly whole from top to bottom, inside and out! Okay then. I choose the discipline when it comes! How about you?
My verse: Hebrews 12:11, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening – it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.”
My response: When we refuse worry and turn it into prayer over and over and over … when we forgive and remove bitterness … when we fix our eyes on Jesus and not on earthly things .. when we submit to another, placing their interests ahead of our own … each decision a little death – a dying to self – then YOU show up with a peacefulness of the harvest! Help me, Lord, to welcome Your discipline and trust Your commands.
