What does "removal of what can be shaken" signify in our spiritual lives? The Text at a Glance “‘Once more,’ signifies the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain.” (Hebrews 12:27) The Picture of Divine Shaking • God is the One doing the shaking (12:26). • He targets “created things”—everything bound to time, space, and decay. • The shaking is purposeful, not random; it separates what endures from what will crumble. • The ultimate goal: reveal and exalt the eternal kingdom that cannot be moved (12:28). What the Removal Signifies in Daily Spiritual Life • Detachment from temporary supports—careers, finances, reputations, even church traditions that are more cultural than biblical. • Exposure of counterfeit faith; trials reveal whether trust rests on Christ or on convenience (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Refinement of motives; selfish ambition and hidden sin lose their grip when God shakes our world (Malachi 3:2-3). • Redirection of worship; we move from valuing gifts to valuing the Giver (Psalm 73:25-26). • Preparation for future glory; each shaking is a rehearsal for the final sifting when only the eternal will endure (1 Corinthians 3:13-14). Scripture Echoes • Haggai 2:6-7—“I will shake the heavens and the earth… and fill this house with glory.” • Matthew 7:24-27—storms expose the foundation; only the life built on the Rock stands. • Psalm 46:1-2—though “the earth give way,” God is “a very present help.” • 2 Peter 3:10-13—the present heavens and earth will melt, ushering in “new heavens and a new earth.” Stability Found in Christ Alone • Hebrews 13:8—Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Colossians 1:17—“in Him all things hold together.” • Psalm 62:6—“He alone is my rock and my salvation; I will not be shaken.” Living Responsively • Anchor heart and mind in Scripture daily; truth steadies the soul when externals tremble. • Cultivate gratitude (Hebrews 12:28); thanksgiving shifts focus from loss to the richness of receiving an unshakable kingdom. • Invest in eternal works—disciple-making, acts of mercy, generous giving—things fire and quake cannot destroy (Matthew 6:19-20). • Walk in reverent awe (Hebrews 12:28-29); holy fear keeps us from clinging to what is passing away. • Encourage one another (Hebrews 10:24-25); community reinforces faith when individual worlds are shaking. |
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