HEBREWS 13:1-25

The writer of Hebrews quotes Psalm 118 from our last devotional in asserting the protective power of God and the impotence of human enemies. That doesn’t mean enemies are not active. It doesn’t even mean their words and deeds are not harmful. It only means that the faithful child of God takes refuge in the LORD and the soul entrusted to Him will be kept unto the day He calls us home.

The enemy within

The battle fronts we experience attacks from are human mistreatment, relationships and money. Faith teaches us that trust in God is well-placed. When brotherly love breaks down, however, the enemy in not in the opposing camp, but within our own lines. The flowers don’t suit us, the sermon is too short (ok, stay with me anyway), the paper towels need replenishing, or the chairs squeak may seem innocuous, but when they come in waves, our leaders are harmed.  What then?

The call to serve

Have you noticed how much of the scriptures deal with interpersonal relationships? Have you noticed how often the issues are harm inflicted by those we love? Within the body of Christ, we learn of grumblers, gossips, and gripers. These folks are devastating to leadership. Why? Because our leaders serve voluntarily and choose to do so in order to build up the flock and help the sheep.

Where’s the joy?

Good leaders concern themselves with healthy teaching and purposeful outreach. What do you think happens when they are beset by complaints about insignificant matters when they come to worship God on the Lord’s Day? We gather to offer our sacrifice of praise, but too many are chewing on the ear of a Shepherd.

Is there a better way?

Submission to our leaders does not mean we don’t speak to them, it means we understand the way to do so that leaves them room to serve with joy. They are more concerned with our souls than our comfort and our preferences. Our assemblies are times for souls. Choose your times wisely.

Discover … His Joy A

ccess … His Joy

Share … His Joy