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The writer of Hebrews considers “God’s Rest” to be a serious matter that needed teaching and reminder – see Heb. 3:7, 15; 4:7. He gives a stern warning with a serious consequence: not to enter “God’s Rest” is a disqualification to be avoided.
No dedicated runner in a race would neglect to guard against disqualifications – a false start, running outside the lane or the improper passing of the baton. Any slip to the rules would immediately disqualify the runner. For an athlete who has spent many hours training, for the Olympian it may take four years or more, it would be disastrous to disqualify at that crucial race he has prepared so hard for. The Apostle Paul instructed believers not to run aimlessly but to go into strict training and do it to get a crown. They are encouraged to do as he did, that “I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Cor. 10:24-27).
For the Christians, disqualification is because of rebellion, sin, disobedience and unbelief. It is a refusal to trust God in His ways, His leadings and His promises. It is a hardening of hearts. The rebellious Israelites were not allowed to enter God’s rest. For forty years they wandered in the desert without stepping into the Promised Land. They disobeyed and did not believe in God’s promises; hence they did not receive and see the fruition of His promises to Abraham.
“Today”, the Hebrews in the early Church were reminded and “Today”, we are told not to rebel against God for the penalty is severe. To be denied and be deprived of God’s rest would be a terrible matter. He promised a rest that encompasses more than just a crown at the end of the race. It is a life that receives His Presence (Ex. 33:14), His Protection (Deut. 12:10, 1 Kg. 5:4) and His Peace (Pro. 19:23). For us, we have an example to follow – Jesus Christ. He promised us: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matt. 11:29). Let us “fix our eyes on Jesus” and enter God’s Rest.
“Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between His shoulders.” (Deut. 33:12)
