Read

Hebrews 12:14-17

¹⁴Try to live in peace with everyone, and seek to live a clean and holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. ¹⁵Look after each other so that none of you will miss out on the special favor of God. Watch out that no bitter root of unbelief rises up among you, for whenever it springs up, many are corrupted by its poison. ¹⁶Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau. He traded his birthright as the oldest son for a single meal. ¹⁷And afterward, when he wanted his father’s blessing, he was rejected. It was too late for repentance, even though he wept bitter tears.

Reflect

As a Marine, I spent a considerable amount of time on-board Navy ships sailing from one trouble spot to another. One of the most important rules we had was that when the ship sailed, you better be on it. If you “missed the boat”, you would face serious punishment that usually entailed demotion, fines and time in the brig. You would also miss out on any liberty for the rest of the tour.

When Christ comes again, some people will miss the boat. Verse 14 says that those who are not holy will not see the Lord. That is why it is important that we seek to live holy lives while we are here on earth so we will see the Lord when He returns.

Respond

According to verse 14, why is it important to live a clean and holy life?

How can we guard ourselves against missing our fathers blessing?

Why is fellowship important among believers in Christ?

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