Hebrews 12:14-17 (NIVUK)
14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. 16 See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterwards, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought the blessing with tears, he could not change what he had done.
Our passage this week started with the encouragement of the crowd cheering us on as we run the race of faith. Today it comes full circle, reminding us to encourage and not hinder others running the race – to do all that we can to ensure that our lives don’t hinder others from following God, and to seek to help others keep on track. We don’t race alone, and the prize isn’t for the one who comes first, the prize comes from getting as many across the finish line as possible.
Father, is there anything I do that risks or causes others to stumble as they seek to follow you? Forgive me and help me put it aside. Is there anyone I can encourage today? Show me who they are and what it is I can do.
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