Bridging the Gap Encouragingly

The idea of ?bridging the gap ? is appealing because it ?s so easy for us to see the gaps between people. We recognize the gaps between individuals quickly: our appearance, our words, our actions, our beliefs. But sometimes it ?s tough for people in the church to know how to bridge those gaps, especially the ones that we know from our study of the Bible that are based in sin: bad language, bad habits, bad relationships, etc.

Hebrews gives us insight into how to bridge the gaps through encouragement. Hebrews 3:12, 13 says: ?See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin ?s deceitfulness. ? The writer recognizes that sin is a problem within the church. He also recognizes that the body of believers has a responsibility to help each other to deal with the problem of sin so that none will turn from God. How does he recommend dealing with that problem? He tells them to ?encourage one another daily. ?

So, here ?s what I see. There ?s a lot of sin in our lives (duh). There ?s also quite a bit of ?hardening ? going on. The sin that we ?re all wrestling with seems to be hardening our hearts against each other. And some of that hardening has led to strained and broken relationships within families, among friends, and across the church. We need to stop it.

We know what to do to deal with the sin (read the Bible, pray, worship, serve, etc.), so let ?s focus on dealing with the hardening. We need to encourage one another daily and develop an atmosphere of mutual encouragement. Forget about what divides us and focus on what ?s bringing us together. Be purposeful in thanking your kids teachers and choir directors. Let the elders, deacons, and staff know you appreciate their service. Pitch in and help whenever you see someone working. How long should we do this? ?As long as it is called Today. ? Don ?t stop!