And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds..- Hebrews 10:24 NIV
Do you ever get so busy and self-consumed that you forget there are people all around you who have needs and challenges too? It is true. We are often so concerned about ourselves that we forget or bypass people who are struggling terribly. We do not realize they need a special act or word to encourage them. This is especially sad when it happens among the people we are closest. We are to be a spiritual family who genuinely cares for one another and who helps meet each other's needs. This is why Hebrews 10:24 says, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works."
The word "consider" is means thinking something through or to ponder something from the top all the way to the bottom. It is the idea of mulling something over, carefully contemplating a matter, pondering and carefully looking at a particular issue, or examining and fully studying a subject.
The scripture is not saying we go about giving help to all people all the time without weighing the needs against the Holy Word. It means we are to measure the circumstance in light of the person's ups and downs, his highs and lows. You study the person and find out what helps that person feel encouraged and what events tend to pull him down. This means we should take time and be determined to really know and understand the other person. Investment in time and studying is necessary to get to know someone. This kind of knowledge does not come by accident, but by determined pursuit. Do not be quick to judge and do not pigeonhole anyone's needs.
In light of this understanding, we must remember that although the local church is to be a place where we can come to worship and hear the Word of God preached and taught, it is also a place where God manifests Himself in healings and miracles. And beyond all of that it is the place where believers should "consider one another". Often, we are distant to others and therefore miss out blessing others. Sometimes, it is easier to get to know one another in a small group.
Consider was one word the other is PROVOKE! All I can think of is a cattle prod! Right after we get to know the person, we are also responsible to encourage them along even if it means to walk alongside the person and propel them forward into action for their life's situation. Now I am not speaking about being brash and hostel to that person. It could be a sharp word given in love! It could be a short sentence like "It is none of your business; let her live her own life."
You may have already guessed that "provoking" one another can be either a positive or a negative thing! Another way to provoke in the negative sense of the word is to irritate, to anger, to enrage another. Obviously, this provoking is not of the Holy Spirit! It is true our "provoking" relationships with other believers should compel us to become better, stronger, and bolder in the Lord and to live a victorious life in the natural as well.
I often ask, "How do I do this, Lord?" How do I love enough to provoke other believers in a positive way? How can I stimulate believers in such a way that makes them want to walk in love and do good works? How can I (we) sharpen and inspire our fellow believers who are in need of endurance? We can come alongside that person and love them enough not to leave them in discouragement and defeat. We can sharpen them, prod them, propel them, and inspire them to keep on fighting the good fight of faith! All believers need to be provoked at times, no matter what their position is in the Body of Christ. Everyone needs a loving push in the right direction now and then!
This verse plainly tells us that we should be extremely concerned about each other's welfare and spiritual progression. We are to get involved in other believers lives, not just for our own benefit, but to be a benefit to others as well. We need people who will love us, observe us, and support us when we are struggling or standing on a word from God. However, at the same time, others need our assistance too.
Proverbs 17:17 NIV says, " A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Real friends love no matter the circumstances. They will love us and assist us when we are experiencing challenging times.
There is nothing like living in an atmosphere of faith and love being surrounded with believers who really believe and practice the Word of God. Having friends like all of you and being a friend like this to you helps give us the strength we needs to live as an over-comers.
The joy and satisfaction comes when fellow believers go out of their way to call you, to come see you, to write you a note, or to personally check up on you and share their life's story with you so that you can be encouraged! Just knowing someone cares enough to do that can make a difference!
In my past, I have provoked in the negative sense. Today I ask you to consider with me ways to uplift those in our believers' circle! Make a quality decision to become an expert at provoking others unto love and good deeds
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