
SCRIPTURE - Hebrews 12:14
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
OBSERVATION
This verse encourages the Hebrews to take a step back and examine their lives. Are they living in peace with those around them? Are their actions honoring God and His commands? But this self-reflection goes beyond personal growth—it serves a greater purpose. Their conduct is meant to reflect who God is to those watching.
The Holy Spirit is always present, and God is actively at work. Yet, for many people, the clearest glimpse of God they will ever see comes through the lives of His followers. The author of Hebrews understood this and urged the people to recognize that their behavior wasn’t just about personal obedience—it was about revealing God’s character to the world.
APPLICATION
Holiness can feel like a challenging concept to grasp. Does it mean we’re supposed to be perfect? What happens when we mess up? How do we avoid doing wrong? While these questions can lead to deeper understanding, they often miss the heart of what it means to live a holy life.
If God created us, then He knows what’s best for us. Think of parents who don’t want their kids playing under the kitchen sink—not because they’re trying to restrict them, but because they know it could be harmful. In the same way, God’s guidance isn’t about arbitrary rules or simply keeping us out of trouble. As our Creator, He wants us to thrive, and He knows the things that could harm us or stand in the way of our flourishing. Holiness isn’t just about what we avoid—it’s about stepping into the fullness of life and closeness with God that He desired for us from the very beginning.
(Note that if you are struggling with severe addiction, Oaks Church highly recommends counseling in addition to spiritual disciplines. If you need help, please connect with our Care Team at oaks.church/care.)
PRAYER
Is there anything in your life right now that you know God wouldn’t want for you? Remember, His instructions aren’t about restriction—they’re about leading you into the life He designed for your ultimate good. When we experience breakthrough in our behavior, it doesn’t just bring us peace or the joy of living in alignment with God’s will. It also serves as a living testimony, showing others who God is and inviting them to consider following Him.
"God, I ask for your help today to let go of the behaviors I’ve been holding onto that don’t honor you. Help me see how those choices hold me back from the good life you’ve planned for me. Give me the strength to lay them down once and for all, trusting in your grace to carry me forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
If anyone in our church or otherwise is struggling with addiction please feel free to reach out to the Wooleys :) 214-650-8398 we have been there and found the way out love and respect :)
Lord,
I want to be a Living Testimony of You! I want to be the Bible they see. I want to be an instrument of your Love, your hope, your kindness.
Show me today who I can encourage and be Jesus in flesh. May my own fear and insecurity not hold me back.
May I live boldly for You! Help me lay down my doubt that is holding me back from living in alignment with your will.
Mold me in your hand.
In Jesus Name.
Amen
🙏❤️
God can brake all chains. I believe. I’ve seen. I have a testimony. He is a powerful God. A merciful God. Work Holy Spirit. Work. Hallelujah! Praise Jesus. Thank you God.
Pastor reeves said it last night I’m Youth- fix your focus. This is such a timely word for us as believers not only inward but outward for us as well! When people look at our lives, what is our focus on? Does it show we are focused on Jesus? Lord help me to stay focused in on You today! Help me to not get distracted but to fix my focus on Your will for my life and Your purpose. I pray for appointed encounters today with someone who might be lost, hurting or feeling hopeless- that I may share of Your goodness and who You are with them to testify that in You they can be found, healed and hav…