Righteousness that Endures

Some things in life are easy to start but difficult to finish. A new hobby, a workout routine, even a diet… many of us know what it feels like to begin with excitement only to lose momentum in the middle. The Christian life can be similar in this way. Starting is exhilarating. Baptism brings joy, forgiveness, and a fresh sense of purpose. Finishing is glorious: the crown of righteousness, the joy of heaven, the sight of Jesus. But in between lies the long road of faithfulness, and that is where endurance matters most.

That’s the message of Hebrews 10:32-39. The Jewish Christians who first received this letter had already endured suffering for their faith. They were insulted, their possessions were confiscated, and some were imprisoned. At first, they endured with joy because their focus was on something greater: “you yourselves have a better and enduring possession” (Hebrews 10:34). But as time passed, discouragement began to creep in. The Spirit’s message to them was clear and direct: Don’t give up now.

The same message is for us. God’s righteousness is not only what saves us: it is what sustains us.

• Remember how you endured before. The Hebrews were taught to look back on the earlier days of their faith, to recall how God had carried them through. We can do the same. Think about times when God answered your prayers, gave you strength, or carried you through loss. Memory fuels perseverance.

• Recognize the importance of endurance. The writer warns: “Don’t throw away your confidence, which has a great reward” (Hebrews 10:35). Faith is not a short sprint; it is a long race. We need endurance to continue doing God’s will until the promise is fulfilled.

• Rest in God’s promise. Quoting from Habakkuk, the text reminds us: “The Coming One will come and not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith” (Hebrews 10:37-38). God’s timing may not be ours, but His promises are sure. Endurance is not about controlling outcomes… it’s about trusting the One who is faithful.

• Resolve to belong to those who endure. The chapter ends with this bold declaration: “But we are not those who draw back and are destroyed, but those who have faith and are saved” (Hebrews 10:39). This is not just a warning; it is a declaration of identity. God’s people are those who continue believing.

Endurance isn’t about just gritting our teeth and holding on with our own strength. It’s about relying more fully on the God who has already carried us through. His righteousness lasts forever. His promises are sure. If you trust Him, His righteousness will sustain you as well.

So: Where do you stand today? Will you be among those who shrink back, or among those who press forward? God invites you to live by faith and endure to the end.

Those Serving
CALL TO WORSHIP/PRAYER
Nathan Armstrong
SONG LEADER
Russ Robins
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Paul Braden
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Wes Grushon
Randy Mullins
Drummed McLaughlin
Robert Zehring
SCRIPTURE READING
John Key
Hebrews 10:32-39
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Chris Terrian
CLOSING COMMENTS
Russ Robins
WELCOME CENTER
Greg Morrison // Emily McDonald
USHERS
Richard Jacobs // Rich Walker
COMMUNION PREP
Marilyn Sims
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Josh Childers