True Sons and Daughters of God Listen, Believe, & Act

Hebrews 6:12 (KJV)

12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

True Sons and Daughters of God Listen, Believe, & Act

Česky: Kříže – symbol utrpení Ježíše Krista a jeho ukřižování (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In today’s verse the writer of Hebrews is urging believers to stand steadfast in their faith and trust the Lord to be true to His promise. This admonishment to have faith in God and to trust His promises occurs within the context of a review of how many of the Israelites perished in the wilderness because they did not believe in God for His promise of their inheritance of the Promised Land. They saw the challenges they faced as being more powerful than God. They saw with their eyes but refused to see with their hearts. As a result they were punished by not being allowed to enter into the Promised Land. They died struggling in the wilderness, and were denied entry into the rest that God had planned for them.

A jewel of wisdom and instruction is revealed in these words “that ye be not slothful.” We think of slothfulness as laziness. We associate laziness with house chores and how well we do our jobs. Slothfulness does relate to these things, but it has a deeper meaning here. The word “slothful” in Hebrews 6:12 is translated from the Greek word “nōthros ,” which means “dull and sluggish.” But, the root word is “nothos,” which means “bastard” or “a spurious or illegitimate son.” It is as if the Lord is saying to us: “Look, no true son or daughter of mine would refuse to hear and believe me. My true children believe me and act accordingly.” The bastard does not care for his father’s business. This reminds of when Jesus said “If you love me keep my commandments.”

So, where do you stand today? Are you a child of God, or a bastard? Remember, illegitimate sons and daughters are not heirs. Those who inherit their father’s wealth and blessings must be truly related to him. Where is your relationship with Jesus, today? If you are a true child of God, then you will hear His voice, stand on His promises, and do His will. Do these things and you will inherit the Kingdom of God as a citizen of Heaven.

If you don’t know Jesus, and you want to become a child of God, you can enter into the family of God right now. Have faith in Jesus, and ask for forgiveness for your sins. Say this prayer in your heart: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner.” Ask for the Holy Spirit to lead you to a good Bible believing church. Study the Bible. Be willing to learn and to do the will of God. May the love of God so shine in your life that “men may see your good works and glorify your father which is in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Until we meet again: “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” (Ephesians 6:10)

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