“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:23-25

Holding fast the confession of our hope without wavering may sound easy, but when you’re put to the test, you realize how wavering you are. This should not surprise or discourage a Christian. Satan has declared war on us, “Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus”. (Revelation 12:17) If you are keeping the commandments of God and holding to the testimony of Jesus, you are in Satan’s crosshairs. Of course, our Lord knows this and He promises to protect you. As we read in Ephesians, “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:10-12). You are secure in Christ who on the cross has already crushed the head of the ancient serpent.

But do not be fooled to think that you are on your own to fight in isolation! Jesus joined you to His body, the Church, to keep you holding fast to the confession of our hope. That is why rather than neglecting to meet together, we are to consider how to stir one another up to love and good works and encourage one another.

As you put on the whole armor of God to “stand against the schemes of the devil”, you do not stand alone. We stand together, alongside one another, helping each other to wield “the Sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit…making supplication for all the saints.” (Ephesians 6:17-18) Meeting together is mutually encouraging as we hold fast the confession of our hope.

The Lenten season is a good opportunity for people to reengage in regular worship and fellowship. If you know someone who could use some encouragement, consider inviting them to share a meal and worship with us Wednesday evening.