A few years ago my young grandson introduced me to the Matt Redman song "You Never Let Go." He sang it enthusiastically all the way to church. I have come to appreciate this song as a helpful reflection of what God says in his Word.

Today's verses from Hebrews are based on two Old Testament Scriptures. In Deuteronomy 31:6 Moses offers great encouragement to God's people. And in Psalm 118:6-7 the writer states with confidence that when the Lord is your helper, there is no need to fear. Later the psalmist also says, "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation" (118:14).

These texts are often a comfort to believers facing times of crisis. Knowing the assurance of God's presence, we are comforted and filled with hope. We know that God is always with us and will never leave or forsake us.

But even in good times we face challenges. The first part of our passage today reminds us to love "one another as brothers and sisters." We are urged to "show hospitality to strangers." We are called to remember people who are in prison and those who are mistreated. Our marriages are to be honorable, and we are to be content with what we have. These are not easy tasks! The only way we can serve God with confidence is by remembering that our Lord Jesus died for us so that we can joyfully live for him.