Struggling to grow in holiness in our Christian lives is essential in our effort to come to God (14). We need to live in peace with everyone, and our lifestyle should reflect the grace of God to receive God's blessing (17).

When Moses received the law, it was glorious yet terrifying. The mountain of fear described in verses 18 and 19 refers to Exodus 19. Because of their sins, the Israelites could not climb Mount Sinai to see God. They had to understand the holiness of God and obey his commands. However, we are not on the old mountain anymore. With Jesus as our mediator, we freely come to God (24).

What should our life attitudes be in our new relationship with God? As we desire to live a holy life, we must not refuse to listen to him (25). We have learned that God severely punished those who disobeyed him in the Old Testament. And now, as we know him as the author of life who remains with the same love and grace even after everything shakes away, we need to come to him with awesome respect and an absolute attitude


Application: Father, thank you for the relationship I enjoy in a new covenant through Jesus. Help me to be holy, listen to your words, and encourage others to see your grace as we receive the new heaven that is forever.
One Word: We are in the city of the living God