“The Habit of Some”

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

BIBLE READING: Hebrews 10

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10.24-25)

I still remember the first Sunday back from Covid quarantine. The energy was palpable. We were excited to be there and enthusiastic about worshipping together. I left feeling a sense of purpose and thanksgiving for my brethren. I think we all understood the value of being together. But that moment has passed, and with it, the enthusiasm of some for being together.

Time has a way of doing that to us all. Even first century believers lost sight of the great value their time together supplied (Hebrews 10.32-36). When faith is easy, people tend to revert to what is easy. Especially with the technology we have, it’s much easier to stay home and watch a live stream than to get dressed and interact with real people. But to neglect being with God’s people is not only detrimental to you but says a lot about your faith. It’s not that important. It’s not a priority. I’m not talking about those who have health issues or extenuating circumstances. Many of those folks would love to be able to sit in the pews again. But that’s because they have developed a habit through maturity and conviction.

As the writer of Hebrews reminds us, spiritual negligence is a habit (Hebrews 10.25). Just like it takes time to form good habits, forsaking the assembling can become something that comes natural because of constant repetition. We all need to be stirred up from time to time to remember the purpose of our assembling together. It’s not just about checking the box but being engaged with the needs of others. We know how that feels when others do that for us. There is nothing as powerful as a word of encouragement or a hug from a friend in Christ. Feelings come and go. We need the rhythm of regular interactions with our brethren to keep us focused, encouraged, and accountable. When we get together with this purpose, we all benefit, and God is honored.

Mature believers take advantage of every opportunity to be with God’s people. The more you understand Scripture, the clearer you see the reality of what’s coming, and the more compelled you feel to surround yourself with people going the same direction as you. You won’t have this urgency if your faith is lazy or if you develop habits that keep you distracted. Too many people have been lulled by the comforts of this world and a false idea that my faith is my own and I don’t need anyone else. That’s just simply not God’s plan. We are a body joined together by Christ and serving his purpose (1 Corinthians 12). As often as we can, we need to be together.

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