"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24.
The first half of this verse is about us.
LET US
Life is full of choices. We must choose to be people who are focused on the wellbeing of others. The words, let us, is like an invitation, or a call to action. We can't have the attitude that it is the minister's job to encourage others to service, it is for all of us to do.
CONSIDER
We need to think about ways of encouraging others. We can't just rely upon random opportunities to encourage people. We need to make plans to, and set goals.
SPUR
A spur causes the horse to move forward. Soldiers would spur their horses into battle when the noise would cause the animal to flee another way. It is a painful goad which cannot be ignored. Some translations use the word, stir, which suggest bringing the good up to the top of the pot. We, humans, have a tendency to get settled and need frequent reminders to continue to serve Christ. Sometimes those reminders are uncomfortable.
ONE ANOTHER
We do not just spur our brothers in faith but we get to be spurred by them too. None of us are free from the need to be encouraged to serve God.
LOVE AND GOOD DEEDS
We don't do good deeds and act in love to obtain a good standing with God, but because he has made us able to stand through the blood of Christ.
Love and good deeds reflect the nature of Christ in us. We want to do them because he did them we are his hands and feet in this world.
WHAT ABOUT THAT PROJECT?
The church should not be an idle place- it should be a place of activity, good works, service, and spiritual warfare. We must give and receive encouragement if the church is to move ahead and influence this generation. No time is better than any another for encouraging. Everyone who serves should be encouraged in their efforts.
Maybe the new project someone wants to start will fall flat or misses the mark of the church's mission, but we should resolve to encourage people in whatever good work they are doing; and if they are not doing any we should all the more encourage them to take up the command to love and serve through some good work
(c)Adron Dozat 1/18/15
