Todays readings.. Judges 1, Isaiah 30, Hebrews 13

“KEEP YOUR LIFE FREE FROM …” 

            Today we read the concluding chapter of the letter to the Hebrews, it starts, “Let brotherly love continue.”  What things can undermine “brotherly love”?  One thing is a breakdown in teamwork between believers in Christ – starting with a lessening of “spirit of Christ” in their hearts – see Romans 8 v. 9-11. We do “not belong to Christ” if we do not have this Spirit!  Such may not see themselves as belong to the world – but there is no ‘middle’ way!

            How vital is advice we read today in v. 5 “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have…”  We recall the verse in Paul’s 1st letter to Timothy we read last week, “For the love of money is a root ofall kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith …” [ch. 6 v.10].  What do many, indeed most, in the world, “love” today?  Money is also a means of acquiring or experiencing the things that they love.

            David’s words in Psalm 119 (v.36,37) contain a wonderfully positive prayer, we should all echo.  “Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!  Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.” These words are in total contrast to the spirit that constantly surrounds us! 

            Finally, another prayer (or petition) of David we need to memorize and echo – daily.” Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence”  [Psa. 51 v.10,11]