Lenten Devotion – The Holy Spirits Empowers Us to Serve Others in Love
Day 15, 1 March 2024
“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” Hebrews 3:12-13
The author of Hebrews had written these verses for Jesus-believing Jews who were in danger at that time of falling away from their faith. They were exhorted to respond to the threats of persecution by holding on to the promises in Christ Jesus.
These words are also relevant for believers today, as challenges and temptations continue to test our faith and threaten to rob us of the joy of our salvation. To stand firm, there is a two-fold call to action here:–
- We are to guard our hearts actively so that we will not be lured by sin and turn away from God
- We are to “encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today’”
Notice that this call to action is not optional, occasional, nor to be delayed.
Last year, my husband and I faced a prolonged period of challenges in our work life. We felt stuck in a situation that seemed to have no light in sight and it took a toll on us emotionally. Eventually (not easy to take that first step and I am glad we did), we shared our struggles with our church cell and bible study groups.
With their prayers, support and friendship, we were encouraged and bolstered in our faith. I became more expectant as I trusted God for a breakthrough, fully confident in His goodness.
I am reminded that in our faith journey on earth, we cannot go it alone. Fellowship and community is essential for our spiritual growth.
Let’s gather in fellowship as often as we are able. Uphold one another in prayer. Study God’s Word. Show love and humility in serving others. Forgive and bear one another’s burdens (Gal 6:1-3). All of this are not easy as human beings are wired to want our own way. Thankfully, we have the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying power to help us understand God’s word and His truth! The Holy Spirit unites all believers in love, gives us a desire to resist sin and empowers us to live in obedience to God.
How might you help someone today experience assurance, comfort and hope in Christ through being in fellowship with him/her?
Dear God, help me be an encourager who finds joy and delight in serving others. Amen
Serene Chew