By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Hebrews 12:15-16 "See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. See that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son." - NIV
In emphasising living at peace with all men and being holy, the author cautioned the Hebrew brethren against falling short of God’s grace. Among the things that could lead to this are bitterness, sexual immorality and godless living that despises salvation and the things of God (Heb 2:1-4).
Bitterness is unresolved deep anger and unforgiveness. It opens up a person to many other foul spirits leading to more trouble and spiritual defilement. Likewise, whoever is into sexual immorality becomes susceptible many foul spirits. None of those practicing them is at peace with God until they purpose to allow God set them free.
God’s grace works by faith in Christ (Eph 2:5,8) and His finished work on the cross. It teaches us to say no to anything ungodly as we submit to the Lordship of Jesus in holy living. When one is driven by bitterness, sexual immorality and godless living, the place of Christ as Master and Lord is diminished. This still calls for our choices, to submit our will and bodies to serve God or our own pleasures.
Titus 2:11-13 "For God has revealed his grace for the salvation of the whole human race. That grace instructs us to give up ungodly living and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this world, as we wait for the blessed Day we hope for, when the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ will appear."
Shalom children of God