Hebrews 13:1-6
Being a Christian is about relationships. Whether you call it, “being saved”, “born again”, “justified by faith” or “made righteous” it is about a new beginning in every aspect of our lives. A Christian is holy; God makes us other than whom we were. The Holy Spirit is at work in our lives and is continually making us other than whom we are. The work of God in the life of a Christian will make every relationship different from the relationships of the world.

In the first six verses of Hebrews chapter 13, the author points out some of the relationships that require special attention. Christians need to give special attention to the way they treat each other. We are to love each other, and not give in to the worldly temptation to the jealous, envious or competitive. When a brother stumbles, we are not to be judgmental, but rather supportive. Our love will cause us to be forgiving when our brothers and sisters miss the mark. A Christian shows hospitality to strangers. Where the world sees an opportunity to take advantage, or an excuse to shun and ignore, Christians see an opportunity to love and to serve. Christians share the suffering of others and continually remember them in prayer. They look for opportunities to help those who are suffering and to minister to those in need. On the Indian Mission Field, Christians did not see anyone as untouchable; missionaries wanted to touch everyone with God’s love. Christians view marriage as holy, and avoids sexual immorality.

The Christians relationship with things is changed. Like Paul, we learn to be content no matter our circumstances. We do not look for happiness in bigger houses, faster cars or fancy clothes. We find our happiness in our relationship with God and others. We have no love for money; we give all our love to God and humanity. Accepting Christ as savior changes our relationship with God in an instant; that is just the beginning. Before He is done, Christ changes our relationship with everything.