August 13th - Reflection

Hebrews 10:32-39 (NRSV)
Do not abandon your confidence

But recall those earlier days when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to abuse and persecution, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion for those who were in prison, and you cheerfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you yourselves possessed something better and more lasting. Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.
For yet "in a very little while,
the one who is coming will come and will not delay;
but my righteous one will live by faith.
My soul takes no pleasure in anyone who shrinks back."

But we are not among those who shrink back and so are lost, but among those who have faith and so are saved.

Reflection
Hold strong to your faith in Christ. Through Christ we have nothing to fear, but without Christ we have all to fear. We will lose the battle with the evil wiles of the devil, sin and death on our own. Evil is stronger than you or me, but through the strength and power of Jesus, evil has been conquered, sin has been defeated and the devil has been exposed. Through Jesus Christ...not through you or me.

In our suffering, endurance is built and faith increases, and we need not shy away. For in this faith we have been given, there stands the promise of a Savior who will save us. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Lord, increase my faith and understanding and bring me to you...today...tomorrow...and forever. --- Amen