Tag: shrink

Do Not Shrink Back

Today’s reading is Hebrews 10.

The Greek version of the Old Testament says, “Because there is still a vision for the time, and he will appear at an end, and not in vain; if he is late, wait for him, because one coming will be present, and he will not tarry. If he draws back, my life does not find pleasure in it, but the righteous one will live by my faith” (Habakkuk 2:3-4, The Lexham English Septuagint, 2nd Edition). Our author brings this passage to mind.

Though Habakkuk was talking about Babylon coming to conquer Judah, the point for us is judgment is coming. Just as Habakkuk, plagued by those who betrayed God, had to patiently wait the coming judgment, we must do the same. We may like for God to deal with those who plundered our property quickly. We may like for Him to deal with it before others see us as fair game and it happens again. God may not do that. We may deal with reproach, affliction, imprisonment, plunder, persecution for an extended period of time. We may deal with it repeatedly. Why do we hang on? Because we believe.

Despite the fact it looks like God’s side is losing, we believe God’s side is winning. We live by that faith. We know Jesus will appear again. We know He is coming to save those of us who eagerly await His appearing. We press on in that faith. We will not shrink back from our faith. We will grow in it. We will grow it. We will hang on to it. And through this faith, our souls will be preserved.

Don’t shrink back. Press on. Move forward. Grow in faith. Our King will appear. Our enemies will be judged. We will be saved. Praise the Lord!

Next week’s reading is Hebrews 11.

PODCAST!!!

Click here to take about 15 minutes to listen to the Text Talk conversation between Andrew Roberts and Edwin Crozier sparked by this post.

Discuss the Following Questions with Your Family

  1. What are your initial reactions to the chapter and the written devo above?
  2. Why is it difficult to maintain faith until Jesus reappears?
  3. Why is it important to maintain faith until Jesus reappears?
  4. How can we help each other maintain and live by faith until Jesus reappears?
  5. What do you think we should pray for and about in light of this chapter and today’s post?