Storybook FaithSample

Hebrews chapter 6 and 10 go hand in hand as a caution to God’s people not to turn away from the truth of Jesus. At this time, many believers were falling away, probably due to lack of maturity in their relationship with Christ. Hebrews teaches us that if we are not firm in our faith, we are in danger of falling away from our relationship with God.

If there is one thing I’ve learned in my time in ministry, it’s to never take my relationship with God for granted. The fact that I am strong today, does not mean I will always be. We all need to learn what will keep us anchored when the waves of unbelief, immaturity, and hardship threaten to lead us astray. Various truths about those who fall away are revealed in Hebrews. These things are important to take into account if we do not wish to follow the same path. For one, we learn from chapter 5 verses 11-14 that those who fall away usually fail to be intentional with their spiritual growth. 

The author teaches that these believers “don’t even try to understand” and that they need someone to teach them elementary truths over and over again, rather than taking upon themselves the responsibility to move from spiritual milk to solid food. It is our job to “train ourselves” (5:14) to distinguish good from evil. Those who remain firm in the faith are those who understand that it isn’t their pastor, leader, or spouse’s responsibility to keep them firm. Just as everyone needs to eat solid food for themselves, everyone needs to train themselves in their faith.

Verses 7-8 make this more clear by comparing each person to patches of land. There are two types of land mentioned in the passage: both receive rain, but only one produces a crop that is useful. The other produces thorns and thistles. We all have access to the Holy Spirit, who as our inner witness helps us to know what is right. Yet some of us will fail to take the rain we’ve been given- the word, the spirit, our faith - and turn it into a meaningful, mature relationship with Christ. In fact, those who mistakenly treat them as such put themselves in danger of falling away because of their underdeveloped character.

In verse 22 of chapter 10, Hebrews encourages us to draw near to God. Once again reminding us it is our responsibility to draw near to our father. Note the shift in responsibility that occurs as you move into spiritual maturity. When you are a non-believer, God seeks you out. In the gospels we learn that because He is a good shepherd, He is willing to leave ninety-nine sheep to seek after the one that is lost (Matthew 18:12-14, Luke 15:3-7). He finds us, He forgives us, and He restores us. Then, the responsibility shifts to us not to wander away again.

Often when we speak of someone who once had faith yet has it no longer, we say that they “lost their faith.” In reality, however, most people do not lose their faith; they throw it away. Because they are unable to persevere, they never receive the fullness of what God has promised them. Yet, as stated at the end of chapter 10, I believe that you who are reading this are not part of the group who will throw away their confidence. I believe what is said in verse 39.

Today, as you meditate on these scriptures, ask yourself:

Have I been diligent in developing my relationship with God?

What am I doing daily to ensure that I am moving towards more solid and substantial spiritual food ?

Have I given good fruit as a result of my belief in Christ? Or has my life produced thorns and thistles? What does that look like practically?