SUPREME GIVER

A wise parent encouraging a child to do something will explain why. The writer of Hebrews does the same. Throughout the letter, explanation, normally in the form of exposition of Old Testament passages or ideas, is interwoven with exhortation; sometimes in distinct blocks, sometimes with the different strands less distinguishable. In today’s verses he argues from an incident in the history of Israel by expounding upon Psalm 95:7–11, which draws on events recorded in Exodus 17:7 and Numbers 14:12. Israel complains about God, despite the deliverance from Egypt, and refuses to believe that his power could guarantee entry into the Promised Land. Many years later, the psalmist interprets these events for his own generation, and now the writer of Hebrews does the same for his – as we must do for ours. A generation of Israelites failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief and disobedience. For the psalmist and the writer of Hebrews, their example serves as a warning.

It is always ‘Today’ (15), the day of opportunity and possibility, and we are urged to make the most of it so that we avoid turning away (12) and missing out on the promise of God’s future; we are to hold on to the end. Yesterday we saw that the way to avoid missing out is to focus all our attention on Jesus. Today we see the responsibility we have for one another in the community of God’s people (13). Mutual encouragement is a frequent New Testament note (2 Cor 13:11; 1 Thess 5:14; Gal 6:1,2). Sometimes we feel weak, and we benefit from the support of others; sometimes we are in a position to support those who struggle. Ahead of us lies a great goal, but the road is sometimes hard and the temptation to give up is strong – we need one another.

Are you struggling? Find a fellow Christian to support and encourage you. Do you know someone who is finding life tough? Encourage them, as you have the opportunity.