Times are tough. People are suffering. The future is uncertain, and we need another stimulus. But don’t you even think for a second that I am talking about more cash in your pocket. I’m not talking about a fiscal stimulus from our government. Instead, we need another stimulus of the spiritual nature.
The word “stimulate” is found in the noun form in only two places in the New Testament. In Acts 15:39, the translation renders it “irritation” and is described as the “sharp” quarrel between Paul and Barnabas. This argument between these two godly men was so intense that is incited them to go their separate ways. The disagreement stimulated them to action. It is in Hebrews 10:24, where we find the word used, intentionally by the author, to suggest the idea of “spurring on” or “prodding” us to love and do good works.
Hebrews 10:23-25 – “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
We need “spurring on” or “prodding”. It should come naturally for us to show love and do good deeds, but right now, I believe we need to be simulated. In the context, the Hebrew author commands us to not lose our grip or waver on the confession of our hope. We are to make no concessions when it comes to our faithfulness surrounding our hope. But there are certainly times we need to be prodded, spurred, and or stimulated. Now is that time!
We are best able to be stimulated when we are assembling together and encouraging each other more and more. For months now, we have been gathering online and having to get creative on how to stimulate each other to love and good works. That has been challenging, and it is not what the Lord intended His church to have to do long term. As soon as possible, please come worship again in the building with us at NHCOC because we need another stimulus from you, and you need it from us.
See you Sunday!
I love you,
~ Alexander