No Excess Baggage!

I have always enjoyed the Book of Hebrews. Even after 35 years of reading the Word of God, this remains one of my favorite Books.

It contains some unmistakably clear warnings about straying from the faith; and, it holds forth many personalities from the Old Testament as examples for us to follow.

The eleventh chapter has been called "the roll call of the faithful". In it we read of many who left everything behind to pursue the calling of God for their lives. Callings that demanded clear choices as to whether or not they were going to serve God. I encourage everyone to carefully and prayerfully read this chapter.

Then, in chapter 12, we are encouraged to emulate those who have gone before. We are told to consider their examples, and to lay aside every weight, as well as the sin, that so easily besets us!

In other words, there is no place in the life of a true disciple for things contrary to the purpose of God. On this point the Bible is unmistakably clear!

This truth is in direct opposition to the prevalent mind-set of this age. We see and hear church people contending for the legitimacy of all sorts of things that in their heart of hearts they know to be wrong!

The nitty-gritty of the consideration is this: Are we serious about being saved from our sins and the penalties thereof; or, are we just looking for enough religion to appease our conscience?

I can remember when the saints of God desired messages that would search then out, spotlight sin and point to the blood of Christ as the only remedy. But, it seems that we are in the age of which the Apostle wrote when he referenced a church that we seek out teachers who would tickle their ears with an easy believism.

Let's choose this day who we will serve! Let's make, or renew, our commitment to lay aside every weight and sin, and run with patience the race that is set before us.

I believe that the finish line is almost in sight! Let's press toward the mark!