Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things--things that belong to salvation. For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love that you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Heb 6:9-12 ESV)
There is something incredibly motivating about assurance. When we feel safe and secure in a relationship, we are motivated to step beyond our masks and walls to that place of authenticity. The best bosses are those who motivate us from a position of security, not one of fear. And knowing what we are like, God inspired the author of Hebrews to remind us not to "work harder" but to draw on the motivating power of assurance.
Interestingly, this highly encouraging passage follows one which challenges and warns us not to let go of the hope set before us. Now the author says that he is certain of something better - not that the Hebrews would lose faith, but that they have reason for assurance. At the heart of that assurance is their good works of service to the saints - done in love for His sake. With such "proof of the pie in the pudding", they could press on for full assurance. And with this full assurance should come not sluggishness, but an increased faith and imitation of those gone before.
God hasn't forgotten your service done out of love for Him, either. He sees and knows all you've sacrificed. And He wants you to have a full assurance of faith - one that leads to increased good works, deeper faith, and a closer walk with Him. You don't have to drum up motivation. Just draw near to Him, and let the assurance He provides lead you to a motivation like you've never known!
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