Hebrews 12:14 NLT
Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14 is part of a passage that encourages believers to persevere in their faith despite challenges and trials. The verse specifically emphasizes the importance of pursuing peace and holiness.
Contextually, the writer of Hebrews is addressing a community of Christians who were facing persecution and struggling with various internal and external pressures. The passage leading up to Hebrews 12:14 talks about the discipline of God, comparing it to a loving father disciplining his children for their good. It highlights the importance of enduring hardships as a form of discipline that ultimately leads to spiritual growth and maturity.
When the verse instructs believers to "work at living in peace with everyone," it speaks to the importance of cultivating harmony and reconciliation in relationships, both within the Christian community and with others. This echoes Jesus' teachings about loving one's neighbor and even one's enemies.
Likewise, the call to "work at living a holy life" emphasizes the pursuit of righteousness and moral purity. Holiness involves conforming our lives to God's standards and striving to live in accordance with His will. It encompasses both inward transformation of the heart and outward expressions of righteous living.
The relevance of this passage to us today lies in its timeless principles. In a world filled with conflict, division, and moral ambiguity, the call to pursue peace and holiness remains as urgent as ever for Christians. It challenges us to prioritize reconciliation, forgiveness, and ethical integrity in our interactions with others. It also reminds us that our pursuit of holiness is not passive but requires intentional effort and commitment.
Furthermore, the verse serves as a reminder of the ultimate goal of our faith: to see the Lord. Our pursuit of peace and holiness is not merely for our own sake but ultimately for the glory of God and our communion with Him. As we seek to embody these virtues, we draw closer to God and reflect His character to the world around us.
