Love God Greatly: Jesus Our EverythingIsampula

God has graciously given us the gift of His Word. In His Word we find example after example of lives of faith. Throughout the history of God’s people, men and women have been commended for their faith. They have waited on God, done incredible deeds, and changed families and nations because of their faith. Yet, this is not what they are commended for. 

All of the individuals listed in Hebrews chapter 11 are commended for their faith in God’s promise. The word “promise” used in this passage is singular, showing us that they all had faith in one of God’s promises. This promise is the promise of the coming Messiah, the promise of redemption and eternal life with God. They are commended because their faith did not waver, even though they died waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promise. 

God allowed them to wait because He was working out something better. By waiting, God allowed us, and all those who came before us, to be included in this promise. This is an eschatological promise, the promise of eternal life with God. Christ’s resurrection was only the beginning of this promise! We are included in a great body of believers, all enduring and waiting for the fulfillment of God’s promise. 

God, I am in awe of Your plan. You have allowed me to be included in a great body of believers, all who await an eternal inheritance with You. Help me to live in a way that honors my identity as one of Your children. Help me to live a life of great faith, one like the many examples You have provided in Your Word. Amen.