Hebrews 11
April 27, 2022
“All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth…Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” (v13, 16)
Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the “Hall of Faith” chapter of the Bible - because it lists those who exhibited great faith. And yet, they died before receiving what God promised (v13). At the end of the chapter it says, “None of them received what had been promised” (v39). In other words, “faith” does not mean “getting from God now everything we pray for” - which is what some Christians believe is the evidence of faith. No, ‘faith’ is trusting that God WILL make good on all His promises - in the future city He is preparing for us (v16)
Father, I praise for Your faithfulness - that You will keep every one of the promises You’ve made. Forgive me for slipping into discouragement at times - wanting to see answers now. Thank You for these great examples of faith in Hebrews 11, these people who trusted You all the way to death - even though they did not receive what was promised. Give me this kind of eternal perspective and hope, keeping my eyes fixed on the “better country” (v16) that You are preparing for me.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
-
Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
-
Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
-
➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
