A LIVING FAITH. Hebrews 13:1-8 Love and its actions are a visible demonstration of faith, as seen in love for others. Kindness to strangers has a far-reaching impact that we may never fully recognize. Empathy for those mistreated and those in prison cannot be hidden, because there are always those who look on and pass on what has been said and done. Respect for our marriage vows is demonstrated through words, actions, body language, and facial expressions, all of which cannot be obscured. Contentment with what we have expresses more than our outlook on materialism. It reflects our faith in God's ability to "supply all your needs according to His riches in grace." There is an important lesson to be learned right at the beginning of this chapter, and that is that true service for God includes our duty to His children.
Next to the direct service of God is our duty to His children [1Jn. 5:1; 3:23; Jn. 15:17; 2Pe. 1:7; 1Jn. 3:14]. This chapter shows evidence of fruit in the lives of God’s people. The first on the list is brotherly love. We are to show love to the brethren. We are in the same war as our suffering brothers and sisters. Love in words and deeds is evidence of being brethren and of a living faith. Characteristics of a life of love are love for the brethren, of hospitality, of the persecuted, and love for married life.
Hebrews 11 teaches us the importance of living a life of faith, knowing we have a Great High Priest interceding for us at the right hand of God. Chapter 12 tells us what a life of hope and patience is like and why it is so important to God. In chapter 13, we see the life of love and good works. When faith, hope, and love are evident in our lives, and we are conscious of being taught and guided by the Holy Spirit and the word of God, we will have a meaningful, effective, and satisfying Christian life.