In family worship this morning, we read Hebrews 4 and 5 and there were some verses that stood out to me that I wanted to share. I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15-16
As long as I can remember, I've known that God knows everything and understands the difficulties we face, after all He has planned every aspect of our lives, but it is such a refreshing comfort to be reminded that even Christ was tempted "in all points" just as we are. He doesn't just understand because He knows everything, He understands because He can "sympathize with our weaknesses." Taking your burdens or troubles to Him is like talking to a friend who has had the same experiences.
The other verses were from the end of chapter 5.
"For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." Hebrews 5:13-14
Two things came to mind in these verses; first, it made me wonder how you discern the difference between milk and solid food as regards your understanding of the Word? Can a person who has been raised in a Christian home still be a babe in Christ? Perhaps there are new Christians who quickly are feeding on solid food. How do you know where you stand?
Secondly, being someone who thoroughly enjoys exercise, the words "those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil," caught my attention. How do you exercise your senses??? (and I don't think the author of Hebrews means your sight, smell, taste, touch, etc.). I think he is referring to you spiritual senses. Your discernment of right and wrong, good and evil. If we let our sensitivity to bad get worn down we won't be quick to turn away from it. I know how easy it is to brush aside the voice telling you you shouldn't watch a movie, or listen to a song, or purchase certain clothes. We like to push limits, we like to be on the edge, sometimes we just want to fit in, or be in the "know" when it comes to cultural media. It's so easy to come up with excuses that seem good and acceptable. So slowly we have inched away from the standards or rules we have set. We have let our senses become lazy and raw. We have caved. Just as we have to exercise to keep our physical bodies in shape, we have to exercise our minds and senses to keep in shape spiritually as well.
This would lead to another whole discussion, or maybe blog post, about standards about media.... =)
I'd love thoughts and comments! What do you think?
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