“Be Strong!”

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.”  (Hebrews 12:12,13)

Prior to these verses the author compares the disciples life to a race. The life of a Christian is a test of endurance. Jesus (vs. 2,3) is our example of endurance and patience. Like the Lord, his disciples can anticipate those who resist their their goal to finish the race. God allows these disciplines to sharpen the character of his people. (see vs 3 through 11)

The word "therefore" (vs. 12) connects our verses to these previous thoughts. The “hands that hang down” and the “feeble knees” refer to those who are weary of healthy action. Though their hearts are sincere, they were still suffering from lameness. In context with this letter, these weary souls may be those who were wavering between Christianity and Judaism. They were in danger of completely falling out of the race.

Because of this condition, he exhorts the disciples to “strengthen the hands that hang down and the feeble knees.” This may be accomplished by trusting in prayer to God (James 5:16), recalling God's former mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3,4), and contemplating the prize God offers at the end of the race. (Philippians 3:13,14)

The author then adds “make straight paths for your feet”. (vs. 13) It is so easy for the feeble to veer off course. Isaiah speaks of a highway of holiness for the people of God to follow. (Isaiah 35:8)  The Bible tells us there is only one right way to serve God. To go any other way leads to destruction. (Proverbs 14:12)

It seems the author is urging his audience to personal, self-recovery. So many worldly hindrances may weaken us in our walk with God. Let us take heart, find strength in God, focus on the path, and persevere to the finish line.

By George Slover

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