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"But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:13
I was reading through Hebrews this morning and came upon this verse. I wasn't really sure what exhort was supposed to mean in this scripture. Strong's defines this Greek word, parakaleo, as meaning to call near, comfort, desire, pray. Unfortunately, this still didn't clear up the meaning for me. I searched for other times the word was used in the New Testament, and the picture came into focus a little more. It seemed to me that exhort, used in this manner, seemed to refer to the comfort that we receive from other believers and the confirmation of our beliefs through hearing the word. Consider the following scriptures:
"Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers." Titus 1:9
"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." II Timothy 4:2
"Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify on another, even as also ye do." I Thessalonians 5:11
"And sent Timothy, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith." I Thessalonians 3:2
Exhortation is usually paired with the word of God or a believer/teachers of the word. I believe this is one reason attending worship services is so important to our spiritual health. When we are surrounded by fellow believers, it strengthens our faith. When we are taught through songs and messages about the word, our troubles and doubts are comforted. So many things, if not all things, that God expects from us is for our benefit and its mutual benefit to others more so than anything almighty God could ever receive from it. We are personally uplifted by worship, prayer, singing, Bible study, teaching and good works. Refraining from sin makes our lives better because it keeps us from harming ourselves and others in ways that can affect us negatively for a lifetime. Humility keeps us serving others instead of letting selfishness take over. This should help show us how much God really does love us and care for us, as He is always looking out for us in his expectations.