Fellowship!

Fellowship!

and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching. Hebrews 10:24‭-‬25 AMP

Today's extract is quite  instructive: quite a lot of things it covers. Firstly, there is an underlying statement of fact that we are in the end times. These are the times when it is easier to blend in than stand out. It is easier to shut up than speak out. However, this is not the time to be complacent or passive; this season calls for action. What action you will take is now dependent on your understanding of what God demands of you. Paul encouraged the church here to consider carefully what they could do to encourage love and do good. That call still rings true today. 

Secondly, what God demands of us will take something from us. We must be willing to leave our comfort zone and to endure tough times for the sake of the faith we have been called to. Love is easy when the recipient is lovable; love only makes sense when the recipient isn't so worthy. That is the standard God follows, and is the example He has laid down. For all who follow God, the standard must be scared and binding on all. How else will the world know God  if He is not visible in and through us?

Thirdly, part of the package is the place for fellowship and growth. We must not abandon fellowship, as this is God's prescription for a life that will have impact. God prescribes this as a measure to keep us from pride and self-sufficiency. Some have made it a habit to stay away, thinking that they have all that is required, or that there are too many 'hypocrites' in fellowship. Unfortunately, the church wasn't meant to be a place only for perfect people, but for people seeking perfection in and through the only perfect God. 

Fourthly, there is an eternal consequence to this fellowship. As we meet down here, there is a witness also in heaven. Remember, God took great pains to describe the earthly tabernacle to Moses, and warned him to build it exactly as he had been shown. As we meet down here, we are preparing for what will be the constant experience with God in heaven. If you cannot stand fellow men like yourself down here, how do you expect God to stand you when you stand before Him? 

The day comes soon, when all we do down here will make sense. The day cones soon when an account of my life will be demanded and a reward assigned for what I have done. The day comes soon, when all motives and intentions will be laid bare before God. Before that time comes, make sure you are obeying all that God commands. If He prescribes it, it is because it is necessary for my proper growth, development and impact. If he tells me to avoid a thing, it is because He knows the danger of that thing to my life. What's it going to be for you and me? His time of favour is here.