But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. — Hebrews 10:39 KJV
But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. — Hebrews 10:39 NIV
Reflection on Verse for Today
This verse provides a strong affirmation for believers. It draws a stark line between those who choose to shrink back in fear, doubt, or disillusionment, which leads to destruction, and those who, despite challenges and difficulties, persist in their faith and consequently find salvation.
The first part of the verse, “we do not belong to those who shrink back,” is a call to courage and steadfastness. It acknowledges the realities of fear, doubt, and difficulty in our spiritual journey. However, it asserts that, as Christians, we are not defined by these. We don’t belong to defeat. We don’t belong to fear. We don’t belong to doubt. These are not our identity nor our destiny.
The second part of the verse is not just an exhortation to faith, but a confirmation of our position in Christ – “but to those who have faith and are saved.” It emphasizes that our faith, even when it is as small as a mustard seed, is the path to salvation. Our faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
This verse also serves as a strong reminder that we are called to be a people of faith, a people with the capacity to believe, to trust, and to hold steadfastly to the promises of God. It speaks to our perseverance, which comes not from our own strength, but from the power of God working in and through us.
Life will undoubtedly present us with challenges and trials that test our faith. During these times, we must remember that shrinking back is not our identity. Instead, we belong to the Lord who gives us strength to endure, who fortifies our faith, and who secures our salvation.
The message in this verse therefore encourages us to keep pressing forward in our faith, even when we cannot see the end of the road. We are reminded to hold on to God’s promises, knowing that He is faithful to keep them. We are urged to step out in faith, for we know that our faith is not in vain. In fact, it is the very thing that leads us to our salvation. Through faith, we gain more than we could ever lose. Through faith, we are saved.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come before You today with a heart full of gratitude for Your Word that serves as a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Today, I am particularly moved by Hebrews 10:39, reminding us that we are not of those who shrink back, but of those who have faith and are saved.
Lord, I confess that there are times when I am tempted to shrink back, to let fear, doubt, and worry take hold of my heart. In these moments, remind me, dear God, of Your infinite love and the truth of this scripture. Help me to understand deeply that my identity is not found in fear, but in the courage and steadfastness that comes from faith in You.
Embolden me, Lord, with a faith that is unshaken by the trials of this world. May I not only believe in Your promises but also live in a way that demonstrates this belief. Embed in my heart the assurance that, in You, I am saved, and because of this, I can face tomorrow with hope and courage.
God, make me a living testimony of this verse. As I walk through the highs and lows of life, may my faith remain steadfast, serving as a beacon for others to come to know Your love and salvation.
Help me to remember that You have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. In moments of weakness, let this truth resonate within me. I ask that Your Holy Spirit continually stir up the gift of faith within me, enabling me to stand firm in the face of adversity.
I thank You, God, for the gift of salvation, a gift so precious and undeserved. Thank you for the assurance that we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. I hold onto this truth as I navigate the journey You have set before me.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
