[:en]GOD DISCIPLINES HIS SONS (vs. 1-13)
Christian life is like running a race that involves perseverance and hard work. So we must fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith so that we can continue to run effectively and live victoriously.
Do not lose heart or grow weary when you are suffering because suffering is the training gound for Christian maturity.
Discipline is a sign of love. If a human father disciplines us, how much more will our Heavenly Father do. No discipline is pleasant but painful. But later on, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
WARNING AGAINST REFUSING GOD (vs. 14-29)
Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy. Without holiness, no one will see God. (vs. 14) Christians must have a right relationship with God and with fellow believers. We must pursue peace and be more Christ-like.
Do not allow bitterness in your heart. Do not allow disappointment to grow into resentment. Do not nurse grudges. For it brings with it jealousy, division and immorality. Let the Holy Spirit fill you and heal the hurt that causes bitterness.
The story of Esau showed us that wrong decisions had lasting consequences. Esau sold his birthright with a single meal. Later, when he wanted to inherit his blessings, he was rejected. Even repentance and forgiveness cannot always eliminate sin’s consequences. So be careful when you make your decisions. Evaluate the long range effects of your actions and decisions.
The Isaelites approached God at Mt. Sinai with fear and trembling. But they had a joyful approach to God at Mt. Zion. Before Jesus came, God is so distant and threatening. But after Jesus came, He welcomes us through Christ into His presence.
In the last days, the world will crumble and only God’s kingdom will last. But those who follow Christ have a solid foundation that cannot be destroyed. Build your life in Christ. “Let us be thankful and worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire”. (v. 28)[:]