Positive Peer Pressure

Read: Hebrews 10:19-25

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. (v. 24)

I like to make my own salad dressings. I can add whatever flavors I choose—fresh herbs from the garden, a squeeze of lemon juice for a little sour bite. But dressing made at home tends to separate. When we pass it around the table, each person gives the jar a shake before adding the dressing to their salad. We need to redistribute all those tasty bits that want to settle to the bottom—spread them out through the whole jar.

I love the way Hebrews 10:24 says to “stir up one another to love and good works.” As Christians, it can be really easy to settle into a comfortable life with people just like us. We can fill our calendar with activities at church and fill our social life with other Christians. After all, Hebrews 10:25 warns against “neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some.” God does ask us to hang out with other Christians. But God also calls us to spread out, casting God’s love throughout the world.

When we gather, we encourage one another, reminding each other that God calls us to spread out into the world. Our gatherings are like a good stir on a jar of dressing—keeping us from settling out and settling in, spurring us on to love and good deeds. When you gather with other Christians, encourage one another to “stir it up” and make a difference in the world.

As you pray, ask God to surround you with people who stir you up to love others.