I counted the
words, “by faith,” twenty-two times in this great 11th chapter of
the book of Hebrews. If you haven’t studied the Old Testament, read through the
names listed in this New Testament chapter. Names like Moses, Noah, Gideon,
Joseph, Rahab and so many more. Many suffered for their faith. Many were
ridiculed, put in prison, and most did not see the promises given to them
during their lives on earth. They believed in those things which were not as
though they were. (Romans 4:17) By
faith, they lived their lives and their stories still pulse with life today.
Their example lives
on thousands of years later. Their lives foreshadowed the Redeemer, Jesus. Many
of their attributes, many of their stories, reflect Jesus, the One to come. We
are foreigners on the earth, just as they were. They were waiting for a country
they had not seen, as are we. The longings of our heart are for our heavenly
home, the eternity where all things will be possible and our joy will be
complete.
Instead
they were longing for a better country-a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not
ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. Hebrews
11:16
Jesus,
Teach us how to walk by faith as these men and women of faith
taught us. We long to be home with You. In the meantime, let us give glory to
You with our very lives.
Amen
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