Today

"But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. Paul (Hebrews, 3:13)

The suggestion regarding daily reciprocal encouragement, indicated by the Apostle Paul, requires a great deal of reflection so that we do not allow a little den of certain doubts to be created.

Let us emphasize that Paul places singular importance to time, that is called "Today," pointing out the necessity of valuing these resources along with our activity throughout the day.

Many believe that in order to give good advice to the brothers, it is necessary to communicate constantly, thus, transforming themselves into obstinate debaters. It is important to recognize, however, that a warning constituted solely of words leaves a great emptiness after they are spoken.

As occurs in the physical organizations, no spiritual edification will be constructed without foundation.

"But encourage one another" represents a more important appeal than simply calling the one involved to verbal debates.

Invitations and advice have more effectiveness when they are accompanied by the example of each one of us. All of those who live practicing the noble principles to which they devoted themselves in the world, who carefully fulfill the assumed duties and display goodness with sincerity, are leading the brothers and sisters in humanity on the uplifting path. It is for this kind of daily testimony that the Converted of Damascus invites us. Only through constant practice of inner reform will man free himself from fatal deceit.

Do not become hardened in the pathway that the Lord has led you to trek in favor of your redemption, evolvement and sanctification. Remember the importance of time that is called "Today."

XAVIER, Francisco Cândido. Our Daily Bread. By the Spirit Emmanuel. Spititist Alliance for Books, 2003. Chapter 69.