But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

Hebrews 3:13

The author of Hebrews mentions the word “Today” five times in Hebrews 3 and 4, expressing a sense of urgency. Three times he repeats: Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts… (Hebrews 3:7,15, 4:7). Jews knew this verse by heart. It served as a call to worship every Sabbath evening in the synagogue and challenged them to carefully listen to the voice of God. 

“Today” refers to the present day of grace in which we live. The author is emphasizing what Paul emphasized: …I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Today—not tomorrow, not later, not some day, but today—is the day to listen to God’s voice calling you to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Today is the day to wholeheartedly commit your life to Jesus! You, friend, are not guaranteed a tomorrow.

Tucked into this passage on the urgency of salvation is the challenge to encourage one another daily. Why? So that you will not be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. (Hebrews 3:13) Our enemy is an expert deceiver. He distorts the Word and character of God. He promises good from that which is evil. He lures people into sin by masking sin’s consequences. 

The writer of Hebrews addressed this spirit of deception that was prevalent in his day—the same spirit that is prevalent today. So what do we believers need? Today we need to listen to God’s voice through the study of scripture and share that truth to encourage one another. Daily we need to exhort one another to not only know God’s word, but also to practice it. Right now, we need to boldly proclaim God’s truth to combat Satan’s lies.

How do your plans today include encouraging a fellow believer? 

Lord, help us daily listen to your voice through scripture and share your truths with others. 

Jan Burkhart