Hebrews 10:24
Consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
I have chosen this for the last ‘one another’ this week because in some ways, it is compiled of what we’ve already learned. Traditionally ascribed to Paul as its author, the writer of the book of Hebrews encourages us to put thought into how we can interact with others resulting in their desire to show love and do good deeds. So far this week we have looked at loving one another as God loves us, encouraging one another, being patient and bearing with one another in love, and speaking words of encouragement to one another through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs inspired by the Holy Spirit. All of these actions are ones that when put into practise, spur the recipient on toward love and good deeds. It is when there is back biting and words that devour that one throws in the towel and says, ‘It’s just not worth it.’ When someone never receives praise for their contribution, they usually end up silently slipping into the background and before you know it, letting someone else take over. When we aren’t confronted in love and gentleness but instead bulldozed down, we give up. We are not the only ones that struggle with this. In the book of Philippians, Paul implores Euodia and Syntyche to stop their bitterness toward each other and to get along; and these were 2 believers who contended for the gospel together. (Phil. 4:2,3) In fact, Paul calls on others in the church to come alongside and encourage these 2 sisters toward love and godly fellowship.
It’s about being intentional…consider…. What can I do to spur ‘Jane or Joe’ on toward love and good deeds? Maybe Jane or Joe are already actively living the Christian life and doing a great job and just need encouragement. Or maybe Jane or Joe need someone to come alongside and say, “I believe in you. You can do this.” Maybe they have failed in the past and need another chance, or even forgiveness. Why is it so important to spur one another on toward love and good deeds? Because firstly, they will know we are Christians by our love. That is what we want to be known for, not for ‘being hypocrites.’ And secondly, the book of James shows the relationship between faith and good deeds. “But someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” (James 2:18) In gratitude and obedience, we do good deeds, not to earn our salvation, but because we have been given our salvation.
What would the workplace look like if we intentionally wrote notes or spoke kind words of appreciation? What would our families look like if we intentionally considered how to spur each other on toward love and good deeds? What would our church look like if we came alongside of each other as a team, cheering each other on instead of competing or comparing?
The ‘one anothers’ are very important. They are God’s directions to us as a body of believers for joy, success and as an outstanding witness to the world around us. They make the church a safe haven of welcome and love while living within the safe boundary of God’s principles.
Today may we consider. God’s Word is meant to change the way we live; to make us more Christlike in our person. I encourage you to choose one person, and after thinking about it, (after considering) spur them on toward love and good deeds.
Our song for today is Do Something by Matthew West.