Scripture Reading: Hebrews 3:12–14

Introduction

A. For some reason, no matter how many assurances we have of something, hard times can shake our confidence.

B. There may be times when we are tempted to give up on our faith or to drift, but we must stand fast in our resolve to follow Jesus.

Discussion

I. We must remember that the promises made to us are sure.

A. The promises that God has made to us are extraordinary indeed (Hebrews 4:1–4, 9–10; 11:39–40; 9:15).

B. We have every reason to believe that God will keep His promises (Hebrews 6:13–20; 10:19–23; 2 Peter 3:9).

II. No matter what happens, we must hold fast to our confidence.

A. Great men and women of the past have shown us that it can be done (Hebrews 10:35–39; 11:7, 8–19, 24–27, 35).

B. Trials and temptations are certain to come for us too (Hebrews 3:12–13; 2 Timothy 3:12).

C. We mustn’t expect to receive the promises immediately (Hebrews 11:9, 13).

D. The only way for us to lose our reward is to surrender it, which is why we must persevere (Hebrews 3:6, 14; 6:9–12; 10:23–25).

Conclusion

A. The message to the Hebrews is still sound advice for us today: Don’t give up when the worst is already behind you!

B. When the troubles of this life make things difficult for you, just be sure to take time to remind yourself of all the reasons that you have to be confident of victory in Jesus.