Reflections on Hebrews 10:32–39 in Everyday Life
This morning, as I was scrolling through my newsfeed, I came across several articles that made me stop and think. They stirred something deep, reminding me of the questions I started asking years ago: What’s really happening to America? Where are we headed, and how can we truly understand the days we’re living in?
Looking back at those old posts, and seeing today’s headlines, I feel a weight in my spirit—a sadness, but also a longing to see things more clearly. I want to be someone who discerns the times, who understands what’s going on spiritually, socially, and politically, and responds in a way that lines up with God’s plan. To me, discerning the times is like watching the weather before planting a garden; it’s about recognizing what’s happening now and acting wisely, with faith and courage.
What Does “Remember the Former Days” Mean?
Hebrews 10:32–39 is one of those passages that speaks directly to tough times. The writer is talking to people who’ve been through the wringer—early Christians who were mocked, lost their homes, and suffered just for believing in Jesus. The message is simple: don’t give up. Look back and remember when you first held onto faith, even when everything seemed to go wrong.
This isn’t just about remembering for the sake of nostalgia. It’s about drawing strength from the past. When you recall what you’ve already survived—the worries at work, struggles at home, losses, or disappointments—you realize how strong you’ve become. Faith helped you then, and it can help you now.
· Remember the challenge you thought you’d never overcome.
· Think about the times your family stuck together, even when things were falling apart.
· Recall moments when hope seemed out of reach, but somehow you kept going.
These memories aren’t just stories. They’re proof that you’re resilient, that you have grit, and that God’s been there for you before—and will be again.
Lessons from the Early Christians
The first followers of Jesus had it rough. Many were insulted, kicked out of their homes, thrown in jail, or worse. The world misunderstood their faith and they paid the price. But instead of hiding or giving up, they leaned on each other. If someone was in jail, others visited. If someone lost everything, others helped them rebuild. Their faith was about more than just believing—it was about standing together and showing real love.
That’s what the Christian spirit is all about: stepping up for friends, helping neighbors in crisis, and walking in someone else’s shoes even if it costs you something.
Why Does This Matter to Us?
Most of us aren’t facing persecution like those early Christians. But we still have our own struggles—at work, with family, with our health, or with worry and doubt. Remembering the “former days”—those moments you made it through—can give you strength for today. It’s proof that you’ve faced battles before, and faith helped you win.
The Promise of Lasting Happiness
Hebrews reminds us that the best things in life can’t be lost. Money, status, even good health can disappear. But the happiness God promises—being whole, being with Him—never fades. That hope is what makes all our struggles worthwhile.
Living By Faith, Not Sight
A lot of times, the rewards of faith aren’t immediate. You work hard, do the right thing, and wait. Sometimes it feels like nothing’s happening. But God asks us to trust Him, to be patient, and to believe that the reward will come, even if we can’t see it yet.
In simple terms: finish your work, then wait for God’s timing. That’s hard, but it’s a promise that matters.
Your Present Conflict
Right now, you might be going through something that feels endless—pain, confusion, or stress. Hebrews teaches that these battles won’t last forever. God sees you and promises an end to your suffering, a reward that makes it all worth it.
Perseverance: What God Looks For
It’s easy to just go through the motions, say the right words, and look like you have it together. But God isn’t impressed by empty routines. What matters most is sticking with faith—holding on, even when you feel like letting go.
If you’ve made it through hard times before, you can trust that God will help you do it again. Don’t lose heart—the same grace that carried you yesterday will carry you today.
The Power of Remembering
So, what does it really mean to “remember the former days”?
· Think back to when faith first mattered to you—what did you feel, what did you risk?
· Remember the hardships you faced for your beliefs—maybe losing a friend, missing out on something, or dealing with criticism.
· Recall the strength and joy you found while going through suffering. That’s faith at work.
Remembrance isn’t for self-pity. It’s about finding courage and remembering you’re not alone.
How to Use This Today
· Encourage Yourself: When you feel down, remember past victories. Let them give you hope.
· Stick With Community: Help others when they struggle. Faith grows stronger when it’s shared.
· Keep Your Eyes on the Promise: Don’t focus on what you’ve lost. The best is yet to come, even if it’s not here yet.
· Trust the Process: Sometimes you have to wait for your reward. Be patient; God’s timing is perfect.
Why “Remember the Former Days” Is Good Advice
We all face hard times. We all have doubts and want to quit sometimes. But remembering where you started and what you’ve already made it through shows you’re stronger than you realize.
This wisdom isn’t just for church—it’s practical advice for everyday life. Your story, with its ups and downs, gives you perspective. Pain and loss are part of the journey, but so are joy and hope.
Living By Faith: What It Looks Like
Living by faith means you don’t quit when things get tough. You keep loving, helping, and believing. You trust that the good God promises will come, even if you don’t see it yet.
And when the time comes to leave this world, dying in faith means you go with confidence—trusting the One who promised to keep you safe forever.
Conclusion: Your Story Matters
“Remember the former days” is God’s way of saying: Look back, not to get stuck in the past, but to find strength for today and hope for tomorrow. The early Christians faced darkness with courage and love. You can do the same.
If you’re struggling right now, pause and remember:
· You’ve beaten tough times before.
· Your faith is real—it’s your strength.
· Every trial shaped your courage and compassion.
Stand firm. Encourage each other. Keep believing. The reward is coming—and it’s worth the wait.
God bless!
Minister A Francine Green
August 2925
afrancinegreen.com 