Strength for the Weary, Part 8

What do we do when facing opposition?  We consider!  To consider is to think carefully about something.  

“Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Hebrews 12: 3, NIV

Let’s think carefully about the opposition He suffered.  We would not be able to endure what Jesus went through.  He is a long-suffering God who is always waiting for us.  There is a reason God allows things even when we don’t understand.  

Quite often, when I am seeing my problems and issues, the Lord will bring before me another brother or sister in the Lord who has a much bigger hill to climb than I do.  This is why it’s good to consider.  

As we read along in the book of Hebrews, we are told, “Endure hardship as discipline:  God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?”  Hebrews 2: 7, NIV  

I think the answer is yes!  The writer of this book says, “If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline) then you are illegitimate children and not true sons.  No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”  Hebrews 12: 8, 11, NIV  

Discipline is wholesome and beneficial.  It is the basis for perseverance and encouragement to come into our life.     

The point in writing this is to encourage the Hebrew Christians.  They were tempted to drop out of serving the Lord because of persecution.  Just like us, isn’t it?  At times, we may feel we want to stop serving the Lord, too.

They were being exhorted to “Run with endurance the race marked out for us.”  Hebrews 12: 1, KJV 

One commentary explained it this way:   “Endurance translates the ancient Greek word hupomone, “which does not mean the patience which sits down and accepts things but the patience which masters them… It is a determination, unhurrying and yet undelaying, which goes steadily on and refuses to be deflected.” (Barclay) 

Paul uses this word race in lots of his teachings. It is the ancient greek word agona, a word used for conflict, and struggles of many kinds.  Having many struggles can certainly make us weary.  So, the question is:

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith…” Hebrews 12: 2a, NIV

“Strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.  Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.”  Hebrews 12: 12-13

After we look up, it’s time to get up!  We have work to do, Saints of God!  There are many who need to know Jesus and experience His grace, mercy, and healing power.  Our weariness shall lead to rejuvenation.