GROWING FAITH: PROVIDENTIAL RELATIONSHIPS

These are difficult times with the spread of this virus.  Fear seems like it is in control, rather than the voices of assurance and hope.  We need a faith that is growing faster than our fear!  In the series, Growing Faith we are taking a look at Providential Relationships.  Providence is the trust that God has a plan and that God’s making all things work together to bring us into a relationship with Him.  God’s providence is the source of us building our trust in God’s care! Through the providence of God, we see the plan fitting together.   We return to Hebrews 10.  Remember that these people were struggling to trust God due to their difficult circumstances.  In Hebrews 10:15-25, the writer says that God had been at work for centuries to create a new and living way for us to come into God’s presence.  The realization of this plan should cause us to respond to God and others in a different way.  As you read Hebrews 10:15-25, may the fear of our current circumstances be transformed into the assurance that God will care for us! Hebrews 10:15 The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says: 16 “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” 17 Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.” 18 And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary. 19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another– and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  (NIV)