The Encouragement to Go On

Hebrews 6:9–15
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It seems that the author felt that, after some heavy and solemn warnings, a word of encouragement was in order. He states that he is confident that the people he is addressing are ready for better things that come with salvation (v. 9). The words are like those of a pastor who, after warning his congregation of a dangerous course of action, might say: “But I am sure you people would never do that!” The writer insisted that he had every expectation that the readers would persevere to the end and acquire these blessings.

God will not forget how hard they have worked for Him and how they have shown their love for Him by taking care of other Christians (v. 10). He thus encouraged them to keep it up, while assuring them that He was conscious of all their aid and was available to help them.

His big desire is that they will keep right on loving others as long as they live, and their greatest desire will come true (v. 11). If they keep on loving and helping others they will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead they will be like those who will inherit God’s promises because of their faith and patience (v. 12). Their real goal should be the inheritance that is set before them. They were to be imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit God’s promises.

If the readers were searching for models to imitate, there was the case of Abraham who received a promise from God that assured the multiplication of his seed (vv. 13-15).

Application

It is easy for me to get discouraged, thinking that God has forgotten me, but God never forgets or overlooks my hard work for Him. The Bible and the testimony of other Christians should be enough.