Hebrews 6:10 – “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is a word of comfort and assurance to believers who may have grown weary or unsure if their faithfulness matters. The writer of Hebrews has just warned his readers about the dangers of falling away from faith, but then he encourages them by affirming that God sees and remembers every act of love done in His name.
The verse says, “God is not unjust”-in other words, He is fair, faithful, and trustworthy. He will not forget the work His people do out of love for Him. Specifically, it points to how they have cared for and served others-especially other believers. Helping God’s people is one of the clearest ways to show love for God.
This verse affirms that faithful service, even when unnoticed by others, is never wasted. God sees it all, and He does not overlook the small or quiet sacrifices made for His name.
Historical Context
The early Christians receiving this letter were facing discouragement, persecution, and spiritual fatigue. Some were tempted to give up. In that setting, the writer reassures them that their faithfulness has not gone unnoticed.
Many of these believers had likely lost friends, homes, or social standing because of their faith in Jesus. But they had continued to serve and support one another-showing love not just in words, but through action. This verse was written to affirm their efforts and encourage them to keep going.
It also ties into the larger theme of endurance found throughout Hebrews. These believers needed to know that their perseverance was seen by God and would be rewarded in time.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights two key truths:
- God’s justice – He is fair and faithful. He doesn’t overlook good works done in His name.
- The value of Christian service – Acts of love done for others, especially other believers, are considered acts of love toward God Himself.
It also teaches that love for God is shown not just by emotion or belief, but through serving others. This aligns with Jesus’ teaching that loving God and loving others go hand in hand (Matthew 22:37–40).
Theologically, this verse reassures believers that their salvation is not based on works, but that real faith will naturally produce loving actions-and God takes notice of them all.
Literary Analysis
Hebrews 6:10 is structured as a clear statement of reassurance. The tone shifts from the strong warnings earlier in the chapter to a warm and personal encouragement. The phrase “God is not unjust” serves as the foundation for the rest of the verse.
The sentence emphasizes what God will not do-He will not forget. This negative phrasing powerfully highlights God’s faithfulness. It also builds on the positive message of verse 9, which spoke of “better things” related to salvation.
The focus moves from general warning to specific encouragement: God has seen your work, your love, and your service to His people.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 10:42 – Jesus says even giving a cup of cold water to one of His followers will be rewarded.
- Galatians 6:9-10 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good… especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
- 1 Thessalonians 1:3 – Paul thanks God for the Thessalonians’ “work produced by faith, labor prompted by love.”
- Matthew 25:40 – “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
- Revelation 14:13 – “Their deeds will follow them.” God remembers what His people do.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse speaks directly to believers who feel unnoticed, unappreciated, or tired in their service. It reminds us that God never forgets a single act of love done for Him. Whether it’s helping someone in need, caring for a fellow Christian, or simply serving quietly in the background-God sees it all.
It also challenges us to keep loving others and serving faithfully. We may not always see results right away, but God promises that nothing done for Him is wasted.
In a world that often rewards big, flashy actions, this verse honors the steady, humble work of believers who love God by loving others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s tender heart. He is not distant or uncaring. He notices every act of kindness, every step of obedience, and every sacrifice made in love. That’s not the behavior of a cold judge-it’s the care of a loving Father.
It also shows that God values our efforts, even when they’re imperfect. He remembers what we do because He cares deeply about us. That kind of attention only comes from a God who truly loves His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of serving others out of love. He said He came “not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). When we help others, especially fellow believers, we are walking in His footsteps.
Jesus also said that when we serve others in His name, we are actually serving Him (Matthew 25:40). So, every small act of love toward others is a way of honoring Christ Himself.
Furthermore, it’s Jesus who makes our service meaningful. Without Him, our good works would be empty. But through Him, they are received by God as acts of love and worship.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there ways you’ve served others recently that felt unnoticed or unimportant? How does this verse encourage you?
- How are you showing love for God through the way you care for His people?
- Have you grown weary in doing good? What might help you renew your strength?
- Why do you think God chooses to remember and reward even the smallest acts of service?
- How does Jesus’ example of service shape the way you treat others?