Hebrews 6:12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
It is not known who wrote the book of Hebrews, but we know it was written to the Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and considering returning to traditional Judaism to escape it. The book was meant to encourage them to persevere, to stay strong, and to remain faithful to Jesus. It is within that context that we get today’s verse.
The author was not talking about physical laziness in the beginning portion of the verse. Instead, this referred to spiritual laziness. He was encouraging them to stand strong in their faith and to continue growing. Some translations call it sluggishness. Prior to this verse, the author had spoken of the need for spiritual growth and maturity. And the same is true for us today. We need to be in the Word, attending church, fellowshipping with other believers, and growing in our faith. We cannot become indifferent or lazy. We NEED spiritual growth to be a priority in our lives.
He then went on to encourage them to imitate those who had come before who had strong faith and patience. We can turn to great names like Abraham who was promised his descendents would become a great nation while he had no children. Through his patience we saw God bless him with Isaac who became the father of all of the Israelites. It didn’t happen overnight, but God was true to His word, as He always is, and through faith in Him and patience in waiting on His timing, the blessings came.
Through our faith in God to guide and provide for us we must demonstrate patience. Inheriting God’s promises requires persistent, active faith, not just passive belief. God’s promises are guaranteed for those who remain faithful.
Whatever you may be going through or facing today, know that God is with you and have faith. Be patient in waiting for His timing and the plans He has for your life. Trust in Him as the believers of the past did and you will see the blessings yourself.
Prayer: Lord, Help me to wait on Your timing with faith and help me to be patient to wait on Your promises that are yet to come. Amen
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