RECEIVING THE PROMISE

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, “In just a little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay.” ¹ Hebrews 10:36-37

         Yesterday we spoke of perseverance as a “stick-to-it” attitude.  Here is what the American Heritage Dictionary has to say about perseverance: “To remain constant to a purpose, idea, or task in the face of obstacles or discouragement.”  This is exactly what God expects from us; to remain constant in doing His will. 

         God has a general will for the corporate body of Christ and a personal will based on using the gifts and talents He gave you for the glory of the kingdom.  There will be days when we will simply want to shut things down for a while, but the Lord needs us to always be ready to share the hope that is within us.² Down time is essential for anyone, but we must always be mindful of the cost of our salvation so as never to take it for granted. 

         The promise the writer of Hebrews is speaking of is our eternal inheritance.  We shall live with God for all eternity.  The condition is surrendering your will over to the Lord and living according to His will for your life.  It’s not a matter of simply being forgiven.  What has Christ’s death on a cross done to you within your soul and spirit?  Living outside God’s standards while calling yourself a Christian is a contradiction of the highest order. Live like Christ matters to you.  Live like your belief in God is more than just a concept you have accepted.  Let your belief and faith permeate into your bone and marrow until it flows out of you like living water.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Resources:  The Reformation Study Bible; The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language.

¹ Habakkuk 2:3  “For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; It will certainly come and will not delay.”

² 1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, … .”