IF

Hebrews 3:1-11

We casually discuss the unconditional love of God. Contemporary Christian music often sings that no matter what we do God loves us. This is true. Paul states that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Being loved by God is a constant, but it is not the whole of the story. The other part of the story is our response to that love. Jesus is commended in that he was faithful to the one who appointed him. He fulfilled the will of God for him. Moses is also listed as being a faithful servant in the house of God and Jesus was faithful as a son over God’s house. God is the builder of everything. He is the builder of our lives (our houses) IF we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. He goes on to quote the psalm that we quoted yesterday “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” This building is a process that continues over the long haul. It is possible to become diverted, discouraged, or lazy and lose the ability to hear the voice of God, leaving the house unfinished or in disrepair. There is a call in this passage to remain committed, passionate, and involved in the building of our lives under the direction of the Master Builder. It is recognized that this will take courage and hope. There may be opposition. We may find ourselves having to be counter-cultural and it may cost us something (or everything). We may not experience immediate rewards and our hope will have to be in things unseen. But IF we hang on our building will be completed and our lives will bring glory to God.

This passage goes on to remind us that God’s patience is limited. We are reminded that God was angry with a rebellious generation that tested and tried God because their hearts were going astray. It is vital that we not let that happen to us. “See to it that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” It reminds us that sin is deceitful and subtle. There are few of us who dive off the deep end into sin. Instead we take little steps closer and closer to danger until we are hooked! A little look at that questionable web page to see what it’s all about; A few drinks to be sociable; an innocent lunch with the a married co-worker; a day or two without prayer or scripture; just a little passing of gossip; those idols of passionate pastimes. Hebrews says to watch out. Be diligent! Pay attention to what is going on in your life. Be aware of your motives. Look at the direction you are traveling. Don’t be fooled. And IF we hold on in confidence to the relationship we had with Christ at the beginning then we will be His “house.”

The writer continues in 4:11-12. “We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Peter tells us to make sure our election. Today if you hear his voice do not harden your hearts. Pay attention, today matters.