Read: Hebrews 10:19-25
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. (v. 23)
In Beyond Good and Evil, Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “The essential thing ‘in heaven and in earth’ is . . . that there should be long obedience in the same direction . . . [This] has always resulted in . . . something which has made life worth living” (chap. 5, par. 188). Faithfulness is a “long obedience in the same direction.” It is persisting in a commitment even when the costs seem to outweigh the benefits.
The book of Hebrews was written for a group of first-century Christians facing persecution for their faith. For them, as for all Christians, their commitment to Christ was costly. They needed to be reminded of the reason for their faithfulness.
We too need regular reminders of why we “keep the faith.” The author of Hebrews provides two. The first is that Christ, to whom we are called to be faithful, is endlessly faithful to us. Hebrews 12:2 states, “For the joy that was set before him [Jesus] endured the cross.” Jesus persisted in his devotion to us, his joy, though it cost him his life. The second is that we hold out hope for a joy that is, even now, “drawing near” (v. 25). Our hope outweighs the cost of our commitment. Jesus, who loves us so much he gave himself for us, is coming back to complete the good work he began in us. The Holy Spirit reassures us of Jesus’ great faithfulness and reminds us of the reason for ours. —Ben Van Arragon
As you pray, celebrate Jesus’ faithfulness to you and commit your life to him.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon is the Minister of Worship and Leadership at Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
