Hebrews 13 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“Remember your leaders who have spoken G_d’s Word to you. As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith. Yeshua HaMoshiach is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13 7-8

Reading today’s chapter, I am reminded of King David, whom the L_rd called “…a man after G_d’s own heart.” 1 Samuel 13:14

When I was young, the story of David confused me. Sure, killing the Philistine was impressive. David’s integrity in battle, sparing the life of evil King Saul, and his humility when the ark returned were all great stories of faith. But his acts of adultery and murder were obvious no-no’s of the 10 Commandments. So, exactly what is “a man after G_d’s own heart”, and what does that mean to us?

First, we know for certain, that all people sin.

“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of G_d.” Romans 8:28

“There is none righteous, no, not one.” Romans 3:10

It has been said that the Messianic Community-at-large’s biggest obstacle is that it must recruit from the human race. People sin. That’s why we need a Savior.

Although our goal & direction should be to honor the L_rd, even followers of Yeshua sin. If believers didn’t sin, why would we need an intercessor?

“Who is the one who condemns? Messiah Yeshua is the One who died, but even more has been raised; He is also at the right hand of G_d and intercedes for us.” Romans 8:34

If we didn’t sin, how could Satan accuse us? If there were no accusation, why would Yeshua need to intercede for us?

So, what of our leaders? Are they human? Yes. So, they sin? Of course! Just as the case with David, we must carefully observe our leaders. We must respect them, because they have spoken G_d’s word to us. We must observe the outcome of their lives and, although no man is perfect, we must imitate their FAITH.

We teach children to follow David’s faithful deeds, and steer clear of his faithless ones.

While faithful men are the reflection of G_d’s glory, only Yeshua was the embodiment of it. We follow leaders, in as much as they follow Messiah.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Friday, November 22, 2013