The events of the past few days have been very challenging. They have served to remind me of the importance of encouraging one another. In Hebrews 10.24-25, we read: And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another .
Some years ago, I encountered the following story: D. L. Moody once called on a leading citizen in Chicago to persuade him to accept Christ. They were seated in the mans parlor. It was winter and coal was burning in the fireplace. The man objected that he could be just as good a Christian outside the church as in it. Moody said nothing but stepped to the fireplace, took the tongs, picked a blazing coal from the fire and set it off by itself. In silence the two watched it smolder and go out, I see, said the man. (The Interpreters Bible, Vol. 11, p. 713)
Those of you who have tended to a fireplace know that a single log does not burn for long. Two or more logs in close proximity make for a good fire. The flames rise up producing light and warmth. Remove one of those logs, and shortly thereafter the flames will die down.
I am sure that many of you have experienced the richness of fellowship and the joy that accompanies meeting with two or three other Christians. These can be times of refreshment, encouragement, and solace. For this reason, the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews exhorts us Christians to not give up meeting together, but to encourage one another.
Leave a Reply