The Cooling Stream

Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. (Hebrews 3:12-13)

• The Word of God contains many warnings to protect us from destruction. We must take heed lest we fall. We must pay the most careful attention. We must watch and pray without ceasing. We must not allow trials and temptations to overwhelm us and take us, or there will be terrible consequences!


• All temptations are attractive and beautiful at first glance. They appeal to the flesh where we are most vulnerable. But the ends are terrible; we grieve God and give Satan cause to celebrate; and we hurt ourselves and others.


• True believers will not fall away from the faith. But they can grieve God through rebellion and indifference toward Him, His Word, His Holy Spirit, His Church, and His people.


• Hebrews 3:12-13 provides cautions about perils to the soul. We are to exhort one another to resist the hardening of our hearts that comes with sin.


• Warning signs are given to us for our safety. Let us praise God that He has given us protective warnings in His Word because of His great love for us.


• Oh Lord, thank You for the warnings in Your Word that are intended to protect and preserve our lives. Help us to heed Your reproofs and instruction that we may live a life that is pleasing to You.