Read: Hebrews 10:19-31
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (v. 22)
Training and developing character is not easy. People are complex creatures, with many hopes, desires, and needs. Each of us has a different history and background that influences us. Sin can twist all of these aspects, and no matter who we are, we need the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus to transform our lives.
Jesus Christ knew his mission exactly, and he sacrificed himself completely on the basis of love. He brought mankind into a new life through his sacrifice once and for all. He knows the root of the problem that keeps mankind from progressing, which is sin. When we turn to Jesus, we receive forgiveness, and the opportunity to change. Today’s passage gives us one way to do that—“let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another” (vv. 24-25). There is also a warning: if we go on sinning deliberately, and do not accept the opportunity to change, there will be judgement (v. 29).
Transformation for the better requires commitment, consistency, and a willingness to pay the price. We must live and practice sacrifice as exemplified by Jesus Christ, our Teacher and Savior. He died for us once, but he wants us to continually hold fast and be transformed, even if it means sacrifice.
As you pray, ask God to give you the willingness to be renewed.
Hariman Pattianakottais a chaplain of Maranatha Christian University in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. He is one of the Assembly’s Chairmen of Pasundan Christian Church in West Java. This devotional was previously published in Wasiat, a bi-monthly daily devotional for families, produced by Words of Hope ministry partners in Indonesia. Learn more about Words of Hope's work in Indonesia.
