‘No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.’ (v11) Hebrews 12:11–13
We are accustomed to the concept of training. From sports to artistic accomplishment, our ability benefits from consistent training; learning specific skills to succeed in a certain activity. No surprise that the same is true in achieving a righteous life.
Righteousness simply means that our words and actions mirror each other. One of the greatest criticisms the Church has faced over the years is one of hypocrisy; too many instances where words and actions don’t match.
The best defence we can mount is not to engage in a war of words. Rather, to redouble our efforts to live consistently, where our thoughts and actions match the belief we proclaim and the truth Scripture reveals.
Each one of us knows where the blurred edges exist in our own witness to Christ. Our best response is to go in search of a training programme that will strengthen our performance and so complete the race God has set before us (Heb. 12:1–2).
Our whole ministry should be directed to supporting everyone to live every day with Jesus. So make it your ambition not only to participate in the race of life representing God but to complete it in serving Jesus’ kingdom cause of loving God and serving others.
RELATED SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: 1 Sam. 17:32–51; 1 Chron. 6:31–32; 1 Tim. 6:6–16; Heb. 12:18–29.
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, strengthen my resolve to train in Your service and complete the race of life by faithfully serving You. Amen.’
Photo taken from Pxhere.com
