Questions worth asking
No one is for sure who wrote the book of Hebrews, but one thing for certain. The intended purpose is to encourage Christians who are facing trials. Don't believe the hype from flamboyant speakers that things are getting so much worse for Christians these days. I don’t say that to diminish any current suffering, but to say that there have always been trials, and there always will be trials. Jesus promised us this, remember? (John 16:33) Just as the first readers of Hebrews needed this letter about the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus, we Christians need it today as well. The words of Hebrews help us, as they did its original audience, to push past our fears, and bolster our faith, by imitating Jesus and humbly drawing close to the Father.
The author of Hebrews is writing to compliment his audience for how they endured persecution, even “joyfully accepted the plundering of your property." He thanks them for their compassion on those in prison, and tells them how he can't wait to see them again. (13:19) The common theme however is that the author keeps reminding his audience who Jesus is, and how He is so much better than anything or anyone else. Towards the end of chapter 10, the author gives his readers three things to strive for. He implores them to put their faith into practice by drawing near to God, holding tight to His promises, and encouraging other Christians to do the same. (v22-25)
With those three tasks in mind, If you’re struggling and facing a trial, or just feeling distant from God, first ask yourself, “Am I drawing near to Him?” “Am I actively praying, reading, and trying to be closer to Him?” The author reminds us that we can draw near to God in "full assurance." This isn't a creeping close to God, hoping he wants me there and will give me the time of day, kind of drawing near. This is arms open running to your loving father drawing near. All thanks to the finished work of Jesus. (v19) Secondly, “Am I remembering the promises in His Word that I know are true? Like the fact that I am a child of God, (John 1:12), and a friend of Christ."(John 15:15) Finally ask yourself, "who am I encouraging in their faith right now?" Or as the author puts it, "who am I stirring up to love and do good works?" These questions will help challenge you, and draw you back towards Jesus even in the midst of struggle. Just as the brother of Christ says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) We can have full assurance that our Father in heaven wants us near Him.
