“Through the Veil: The New and Living Way” — Jesus, standing before the torn veil of the Temple, welcomes the faithful into the radiant presence of God. Bathed in divine light, repentant believers draw near in reverence, while others shrink back into the shadows of fear and unbelief. A visual meditation on Hebrews 10:19–39—where mercy meets warning, and the unveiled path invites the soul to choose.
Draw Near with Confidence:
Living by Faith in God’s Promises
The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and were tempted to abandon their faith in Christ and return to Judaism. The author of Hebrews encourages them to persevere by highlighting the superiority of Christ and the new covenant over the old covenant. This passage, Hebrews 10:19-39, serves as both an exhortation and a warning, urging believers to draw near to God with confidence and to hold fast to their faith despite trials.
Hebrews 10:19-39 begins by reminding believers of the bold access they now have to God through the blood of Jesus, who has opened a "new and living way" into the Most Holy Place. The author calls them to draw near to God with sincere hearts, hold unswervingly to their hope, and encourage one another in love and good deeds. The passage also contains a sobering warning against willful sin, emphasizing the judgment awaiting those who reject Christ. It concludes with a call to persevere in faith, reminding readers of the reward for those who endure and live by faith.
Hebrews 10:22: "Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." This verse highlights the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice, which purifies us and enables us to approach God with confidence.
Hebrews 10:23: "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." This verse encourages steadfastness, reminding believers that God’s promises are trustworthy.
Hebrews 10:38: "But My righteous one will live by faith; and if he shrinks back, I will take no pleasure in him." This verse underscores the necessity of faith and perseverance in the Christian life.
This passage is a powerful reminder of the privilege we have as believers to approach God with confidence because of Jesus’ sacrifice. It challenges us to live in faith, not fear, and to encourage one another in love and good works. The warning against falling away is a sobering call to examine our hearts and remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, this passage reminds us to fix our eyes on Jesus and trust in His promises.
Draw Near to God Daily: Set aside time each day to pray and meditate on God’s Word, approaching Him with confidence and sincerity.
Encourage Others in Faith: Be intentional about encouraging fellow believers through acts of kindness, words of affirmation, and reminders of God’s faithfulness.
Persevere in Trials: When faced with challenges, remember God’s promises and rely on His strength to endure, knowing that your faith will be richly rewarded.
Do I approach God with confidence, trusting fully in the work of Christ, or do I allow guilt and fear to hold me back?
How can I encourage others in my community to hold fast to their faith and live out their hope in Christ?
Are there areas in my life where I am tempted to shrink back in faith? How can I trust God more deeply in those areas?
What practical steps can I take to persevere in my faith during difficult seasons?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the bold access we have to Your presence through Jesus Christ. Help us to draw near to You with sincere hearts and full assurance of faith. Strengthen us to hold fast to the hope we profess, knowing that You are faithful to Your promises. Teach us to encourage one another and to persevere in faith, even in the face of trials. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?" —Psalm 27:1
This week, commit to encouraging at least one person in their faith journey. Share a scripture, pray with them, or simply remind them of God’s faithfulness. Let your actions reflect the love and hope we have in Christ.