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I enjoy reading Hebrews 13. How could we not enjoy a chapter that begins with, “Let brotherly love continue” (Hebrews 13:1, ESV). And ends with, “Grace be with all of you” (Hebrews 13:25).
For years, I have enjoyed reading Hebrews 13 and then continuing from this final chapter of Hebrews right into the Book of James without stopping, because the themes of Hebrews 13 are practical and similar to the Book of James. We can read about hospitality (Hebrews 13:2/James 2:8), purity (Hebrews 13:4/James 1:21), the difficulties of money (Hebrews 13:5/James 5:1), leadership (Hebrews 13:7/James 3:1), false teaching (Hebrews 13:9/James 5:19), and many other similar topics.
Verses that have impacted my walk with Jesus…
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2).
Through our 50 years of marriage, my wife and I have hosted guests in our house/apartment for at least 14 of those years, and at least twice we’ve suspected we hosted an angel.
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
Memorizing this verse years ago helped me overcome anxiety about personal finances. Generosity and hospitality begin with trusting God.
Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7).
Years ago, the most influential leader in my life worked too hard, which negatively impacted his family, and he expected me to work the same way. Reading this verse, though I appreciated many aspects of this leader’s walk with Jesus, I decided not to allow his neglect of family to affect my own relationships with my wife and children.
Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things (Hebrews 13:18).
Honor means that if I know my decision will impact you, I talk to you before I decide. Through the years as a leader, I had many difficult conversations with staff and members of the church as I wanted them to “hear it from me first!”
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will (Hebrews 13:20-21a).
When following God’s will, we either depend on God for provision or we depend on ourselves. One path increases our faith, allowing even greater accomplishments; the other limits our actions according to our perceived inadequacies.
Take a moment this week to read Hebrews 13; it will be a great blessing! Find an impactful verse and memorize it.