First of all… I didn’t plan a part 3… it just happened (it was a hostile takeover I guess – LOL!)
Remember, we have been considering how Hebrews 12:3 may apply to us (if you didn’t get yesterday’s devotional let me know). We have been noting the example that Jesus is to us in avoiding the ‘hostile takeover’ of our emotions …and our faith.
Hebrews 12:3 (NASB95)
3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Galatians 6:9 (NASB95)
9 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in DUE TIME we will reap if we do not grow weary.
A very good friend, Tony Flammia, wrote back an observation that I would like to share with you (with his permission of course – names have not been changed to protect the innocent!).
Tony writes:
Interesting point… A hostile takeover is not an action of one giving into (giving up or giving in, or growing weary) but rather one of being overtaken without consent. When we expose ourselves to things that have the propensity to “overcome you” you are opening the door to a hostile takeover that may end up controlling you. Sin ultimately derails and detracts from Gods plan for us. There are always repercussions of sin even after Grace is applied.
What a great observation!
A good working definition for sin is, “The pursuit of any identity other than that which God (through God’s word) declares for us!”
Tony’s observation on our devotional verse three and the topic of “Hostile Takeover” becomes even more significant when you consider the two verses immediately before it:
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV)
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Tony and the writer of Hebrews seem to agree… If we are going to endure this marathon of life and faith – the way that Jesus did – then we must beware of the weight of sin and don’t become an unwitting partner in the hostile takeover of our own faith! Lay aside the sin!
Prayer: “Heaven father, show me the stuff I am carrying that continually weighs me down…wears me out…and opens me to discouragement…
I want to lay it down.
I don’t want to miss ‘the moments’ you have for me!
I don’t want to become an unknowing partner in the hostile takeover of my faith!
Thank you Jesus!”
Boy… I feel better… how about you?
Don’t give in… don’t let go,
Pastor Tom Sterbens
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