At Least Try

At Least Try

Hebrews 12: ¹⁴ Try to be at peace with everyone, and try to live a holy life, because no one will see the Lord without it. ¹⁵ Guard against turning back from the grace of God. Let no one become like a bitter plant that grows up and causes many troubles with its poison. ¹⁶ Let no one become immoral or unspiritual like Esau, who for a single meal sold his rights as the older son. ¹⁷ Afterward, you know, he wanted to receive his father's blessing; but he was turned back, because he could not find any way to change what he had done, even though in tears he looked for it.

 

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Sitting in my apartment, I wondered if anything would go my way. I recalled my past gaffs and I didn’t see how my future could get any better. I went to the mailbox and picked up the bills that left me broke as usual. I wasn’t dating and I did not know many people in the town I lived in. “Sigh” I said.

 

• I felt like giving up.
• I felt like nothing would change.
• I wondered if I should return to GOD because at that time I thought I had left HIM.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, continues to give sage advice. “Try” was his challenge to those who may have felt like giving up. He knew many people would run into those who like to fight and quarrel. He also knew firsthand, the effects of causing strife in other people’s lives because he was once on a religious quest to murder those who “he” thought were not following GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Sometimes GOD does not seem like the right answer to me, but when I have tried HIM, HE has never disappointed me.
• Prayer sometimes seems like a pitiful action, BUT GOD loves when I turn to HIM.
• Letting go of some of the world’s ways seems like I would become strange, BUT GOD wants me to not “turn back” to things that are harmful to me or other people.

 

Following GOD can seem hard sometimes. I mean, what about people who are mean and nasty and hateful towards me? Am I supposed to just get beat up passively or physically? No! BUT GOD wants me to refrain from initiating fights, or living immorally or ignoring how much the HOLY SPIRIT really does for me every day.

 

GOD doesn’t make the relationship with HIM difficult, I do. I want HIM to act a certain way, meanwhile HE nudges me to act the way HE wants me to. HE guides me away from harmful things and leads me to a place of blessing. I am glad GOD doe not give me my way all the time and guide me to HIS way.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer imply “surrendering” things in your life to have a solid relationship with the LORD?
• Are there areas of your life that seem overwhelming and you are trying to use the world’s tactics to solve them?
• Will you try to be at peace with those who fight you and try to turn away from habits that may not be good for you and try to let go of bitterness that poisons you and others today?

Straight Paths Heal Wounds

Straight Paths Heal Wounds

Hebrews 12: ¹² Lift up your tired hands, then, and strengthen your trembling knees! ¹³ Keep walking on straight paths, so that the lame foot may not be disabled, but instead be healed.

 

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After experimenting with “fun” everyone else was having, I noticed my life was not getting any better. In fact, it seemed to be getting worse. I sat on the on my couch and made a decision. “I need to get my life in order” I said to myself.

 

• I felt tired from trying things that were supposed to make me “happy” but found them to be temporary.
• I was trembling from fear of the future, because the “fun” was not addressing any problem I was facing.
• I knew in my heart I needed to do something different.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, begins his final words with some sage advice. “Instead of being tired and scared, why not follow GOD who provides a straight path to HIM and HIS power?” is the implied question in his statement. He knew only GOD can provide the answer.

 

My Observations:

• Only GOD can give me rest when I am weary.
• Only GOD can heal my woundedness when I am hurt.
• Only GOD can provide a straight path instead of the wandering crooked path I easily get on.

 

True success comes from GOD. I mean, HE holds the criteria for what a peaceful life looks like. Unfortunately, I try things that cause me to lose that peace. I seek the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. These things take me away from GOD. BUT GOD brings me back.

 

With gentle correction and wiping my tears away, GOD shows me how much HE cares for me and heals me of life’s wounds. HE provides a path that is straight. I gladly follow HIS way.

 

Challenge

• What is the “straight path” the writer is speaking about?
• Have you ever wandered away from what GOD wants you to do and found yourself in more trouble?
• Will you seek the answers from GOD instead of investing in what the world will have you do today?

Something to look forward to

Something to look forward to

Hebrews 12: ⁷ Endure what you suffer as being a father's punishment; your suffering shows that God is treating you as his children. Was there ever a child who was not punished by his father? ⁸ If you are not punished, as all his children are, it means you are not real children, but bastards. ⁹ In the case of our human fathers, they punished us and we respected them. How much more, then, should we submit to our spiritual Father and live! ¹⁰ Our human fathers punished us for a short time, as it seemed right to them; but God does it for our own good, so that we may share his holiness. ¹¹ When we are punished, it seems to us at the time something to make us sad, not glad. Later, however, those who have been disciplined by such punishment reap the peaceful reward of a righteous life.

 

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Ugh! “Punishment!? Really LORD?” was my first reaction when I read this. I cringed to think of GOD’s punishment. Who can withstand it? But as I read a little more I noticed what it was for.

 

• GOD could crush me, BUT HE chooses to lightly correct me when HE wants me to do something for HIM.
• GOD could make me suffer or allow pain in my life, BUT HE guides me back to HIM when I go astray.
• GOD could leave me forever, BUT HE chose to live with me and walk with me forever.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, continues to discuss punishment. Someone may have asked “Why does GOD allow difficulties?’ and he wanted to provide an answer. Or perhaps people felt discouraged and needed an answer. He gives one word, “Endure.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD loves me too much to let me sin without boundaries.
• GOD wants me to be successful rather than forgiven without change.
• GOD wants me to do some big things so HE corrects me to not besmudge HIS name.

 

When HE wants to do something big in your life, HE cannot couple HIMSELF to something that would allow others to ignore HIS SON. I mean, HE will correct those who HE invites into HIS family so they too can see what grace is really about.

 

Allowing us to do anything is not grace, rather gentle correction to guide us to HIS reward is true grace. I am glad GOD corrects me and guides me back to HIS way so HE can use me and provide peace.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer talk about GOD’s punishment?
• When you hear punishment, what do you think of?
• Will you look to be corrected and allow GOD to guide you back to HIS path of peace today?

Expected to be Corrected

Expected to be Corrected

Hebrews 12: ³ Think of what he went through; how he put up with so much hatred from sinners! So do not let yourselves become discouraged and give up. ⁴ For in your struggle against sin you have not yet had to resist to the point of being killed. ⁵ Have you forgotten the encouraging words which God speaks to you as his children?

 

“My child, pay attention when the Lord corrects you,
    and do not be discouraged when he rebukes you.
⁶ Because the Lord corrects everyone he loves,
    and punishes everyone he accepts as a child.”

 

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Hearing “No” as the final answer, I dreamed of ways to sneak out of the house. “Maybe I can leave out the back door while everyone was sleeping.” I thought to myself. But for some reason. Everyone stayed awake this particular night. My plans failed. Next I actually got the car and drove all over the city. The radiator leaked and I spent all my time and money repairing the car. “I can’t catch a break!”

 

• I was trying to be sneaky and my plans failed.
• I was trying to do something I was told not to do, yet I did it anyway.
• I was trying to get my way but “something” kept me from doing wrong.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, talks about a difficult subject, namely sin. He addresses the “struggle” all humans face. He reminds everyone that GOD will correct HIS children through punishment that is meant to be a guide back to the right path.

 

My Observations:

• GOD knows there is a part of me that does not like HIS way, BUT HE gently corrects me to follow HIM.
• GOD sees when I do not want to be like HIM or follow HIM, AND HE corrects me when I rebel against HIM.
• GOD says to me “You are now in MY family so some of the things you do act against what I am trying to do.”

 

I can tell that GOD is speaking to me when I hear something I am supposed to do that would benefit HIS kingdom, yet I do not want to do it. I mean, when “that” person makes me mad and GOD says “reconcile even though it’s not your fault” I don’t want to do it. When I get punished for not reconciling, I question GOD.

 

HE then replies, “Because you are MINE and I expect you to act like you are in MY family.” GOD does not sin, is full of grace and tries to reach all people, not matter how horrible he or she is. GOD wants me to be filled with grace and sometimes HE uses mild punishment that does not kill me, to correct me. I reluctantly welcome GOD’s correction and I am glad when I get back on HIS path.

 

Challenge

• What children is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever been corrected and been thankful for HIS correction?
• Will you accept GOD’s correction with encouragement, knowing HE loves you and wants you to grow in HIS truth and grace today?

As For Us

As For Us

Hebrews 12: As for us, we have this large crowd of witnesses around us. So then, let us rid ourselves of everything that gets in the way, and of the sin which holds on to us so tightly, and let us run with determination the race that lies before us. ² Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. He did not give up because of the cross! On the contrary, because of the joy that was waiting for him, he thought nothing of the disgrace of dying on the cross, and he is now seated at the right side of God's throne.

 

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Joining a gym, I wanted to gain some muscle. I struggled by myself as I guessed at what I should do. After a while, someone at the gym asked me if I would like to join them in their routine. They started me off with embarrassingly light weight and gradually added heavier weight. When I came in with a candy bar, they said “We don’t eat those anymore.” They suggested food that would help me build muscle.

 

• I was part of a group.
• I chose to cut out some things that were not “good” for me.
• I saw results when I stuck with their suggestions.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, pauses to give a word of motivation. He had just provided a list of examples where faith was shown in different forms. He then turned to the present to provide actions associated with faith.

 

My Observations:

• Faith in what JESUS did, helps me to turn away from things that HE died for.
• Understanding that some things may not be good for me, makes me seek what is pleasing to the LORD.
• Fortitude is given to me when I mimic the determination JESUS had for dying just for me.

 

“As for us” is a statement of being in a new family. I mean, my old family included “friends” who had me doing things that were not good for them or me. In fact, when I nervously joined in, I noticed the “fun” did not solve any problem I was going through, rather it magnified them. I needed a real solution.

 

GOD answered my prayer and provided me with a path to see life clearer. HE guided me away from certain things and gave me something more important to focus on, namely JESUS. I am glad GOD cares enough to guide me back to HIM.

 

Challenge

• Who is the “us” the writer mentions?
• Have you ever been part of a group that had your best interest in mind?
• Will you accept being part of GOD’s family and examine your life to see if there are things you say or do that could hold you back from experiencing a great relationship with JESUS today?

All Makes Perfect

All Makes Perfect

Hebrews 11: ³⁹ What a record all of these have won by their faith! Yet they did not receive what God had promised, ⁴⁰ because God had decided on an even better plan for us. His purpose was that only in company with us would they be made perfect.

 

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“I finished” I said proudly as I watched other people struggling. The task was easy to “me” and I felt good about “myself.” “Why don’t you help other people finish?” was the suggestion said to me that was strange.

 

• I wanted to be noticed for finishing first.
• I was competing instead of relating.
• I had no sympathy for those who were “losing” even though it was not a competition.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, got excited over the mention of this great list of people who expressed faith in many marvelous ways. He then says that what they did was only a small piece of the entire picture.

 

My Observations:

• GOD seems to need a story from my life to be part of HIS great and marvelous plan.
• GOD links my story to other people so we all can live together in a better place.
• GOD’s better plan includes all of our stories, not just the ones we read about.

 

Wanting to be noticed as special makes me compete. I mean, I may work extra hard, or wear something unique, or tell people where I have been so I can be affirmed by society. Then, when I see what someone else has done, I race to do more or to be different. BUT GOD made me unique, so I don’t have to try.

 

When GOD looks at me, HE sees a part of a bigger picture. HE wants all humans to be saved and feels one person is just as precious as another. The person I get mad at, is loved dearly by GOD. HE wants all of us to be saved. I am glad HIS plan includes me and you.

 

Challenge

• What is the “better plan” that the writer mentions?
• Have you ever competed with someone for affiliation, affection, or affirmation?
• Will you seek to be a link in GOD’s plan and join others in bringing people to HIM so HE can have the complete picture HE is looking for today?

All Grown Up

All Grown Up

Hebrews 11: Others, refusing to accept freedom, died under torture in order to be raised to a better life. ³⁶ Some were mocked and whipped, and others were put in chains and taken off to prison. ³⁷ They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they were killed by the sword. They went around clothed in skins of sheep or goats—poor, persecuted, and mistreated. ³⁸ The world was not good enough for them! They wandered like refugees in the deserts and hills, living in caves and holes in the ground.

 

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“Can I go outside?” was my simple question. “No, it’s your bed time” was the answer I did not understand. “I can’t wait to grow up” I said. “Can I go out with my ‘friends’?” was another request years later. Again, “No” was the answer with a good reason. A rare shooting happened.  “Aren’t I grown up enough?” I questioned.

 

• When I “grew up” I realized I was being protected.
• I could not see that I was not quite ready to handle the dangers of life.
• I thought life would be easy “when I grew up” because no one would need to tell me what to do.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, turned to the more difficult side of faith. He wrote about those who died in their belief due to extreme persecution. These men and women lived their lives in boldness for CHRIST, rather than accepting the bondage of the world. They were free and fully grown in the faith.

 

My Observations:

• GOD wants me to have immediate faith in HIM like a child would.
• GOD takes me through trials so I can grow up and understand HIS power in the middle of problems.
• GOD controls life and death more than people give HIM credit for and HE can protect me or take me to a “better life.”

 

Falling to the pressures of this world may make me want things I am not supposed to have. I mean, I may seek pleasure over pain or sweet over sour. When life gives me trials, I may fall apart instead of facing it with hope. BUT GOD gives me strength to face issues.

 

The HOLY SPIRIT opens my eyes to the adversary who will try to stop me from spreading the Gospel of CHRIST. Problem after problem, the enemy is relentless in trying to discourage me. BUT GOD wants me to keep going, especially when life gets tough. HE wants me to have peace in the middle of the storm. This takes some growing up. I am glad GOD cares enough about me to not let me remain a child.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention difficulties people faced?
• Have you ever wanted help, but were not receiving it?
• Have you ever blamed GOD for the trial you are or were in?
• Will you ask GOD to help you grow up enough to be able to handle the tougher parts of life with boldness for HIM, even though there may not be any relief anytime soon?

Becoming Strong

Becoming Strong

Hebrews 11: ³² Should I go on? There isn't enough time for me to speak of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. ³³ Through faith they fought whole countries and won. They did what was right and received what God had promised. They shut the mouths of lions, ³⁴ put out fierce fires, escaped being killed by the sword. They were weak, but became strong; they were mighty in battle and defeated the armies of foreigners. ³⁵ Through faith women received their dead relatives raised back to life.

 

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“You need some help?” was the welcome question that was posed to me. “Yes!” I quickly replied to the strangers who saw me struggling to move my furniture in by myself. What was taking me hours took minutes. I had no pay, but I said “Thank you!”

 

• I thought I could do this myself.
• I thought I did not need anyone, but I did.
• I thought I was strong enough, but really I was weak.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, had just presented a list of various types of faith examples. He then mentions something they all had in common, namely they were weak. None of the people mentioned, set out to accomplish anything, rather, they were used by GOD in an extraordinary way and were labeled as strong.

 

My Observations:

• Strength in GOD means I do ordinary things and HE does something extraordinary with it.
• GOD simply wants me to stay focused on HIM and allow HIM to show HIS strength.
• I have to recognize and appreciate how weak I am in order to gain the strength I need from GOD.

 

For when I am weak, then I am strong. I mean, when I recognize I need GOD and the people HE sends, then I can get strong. Human strength and bring on human results, which sometimes look tempting. I can remain in control when I do things with human effort. It makes me feel better, but the results won’t have GOD’s blessings, which makes any result poor.

 

When I include GOD in my plans and recognize it will only take HIS power to move the mountain, then I get a supernatural result that I cannot explain. My weak effort becomes something amazing that can only be attributed to GOD. I am glad to say I am weak, therefore I can get strong through faith in GOD.

 

Challenge

• Can you imagine a time when the people the writer lists, were weak?
• Have you ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed or exhausted and wanted help from GOD?
• Will you recognize you are weak and need GOD to provide HIS strength in all your plans so HE can make them effective, HIS way and HIS time?

Reputation Faith

Reputation Faith

Hebrews 11: ³⁰ It was faith that made the walls of Jericho fall down after the Israelites had marched around them for seven days. ³¹ It was faith that kept the prostitute Rahab from being killed with those who disobeyed God, for she gave the Israelite spies a friendly welcome.

 

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“Let me see your paper” was said to me in a threatening tone. He knew my scrawny stature was no match for his brawn. I slid my paper closer to the edge and kept filling out the test. I was glad that was over. But then I heard him tell someone “You should sit by him next time.”

 

• I thought I was going to get beat up if I didn’t show my test.
• I was scared of the thugs reputation of beating people up.
• I was building a reputation of being a “scaredy cat” and a “professor” who could easily be pushed over and copied from.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith. This time it was the faith of “reputation.” The Israelites had crossed the Red Sea and the Egyptians were drowned in it while chasing them. All of the surrounding nations heard about this miracle and feared the Israelites. But Rahab feared their GOD.

 

My Observations:

• I can walk all my life in fear or I can place my hope in GOD.
• I can focus on “my” reputation, or believe that GOD will deliver me when HE says HE would.
• I can do the wrong thing out of fear or believe that GOD will protect me even when the odds are against me.

 

GOD’s reputation is at stake, not mine. I mean, when HE says HE will do something, it is HIS reputation that is at stake. I do not have to defend anything GOD said HE would do. HE is the most powerful, most high and lives everywhere. HE sees all, knows all and is above all.

 

I can place my faith in HIS reputation when mine falters. If all around me label me as weak, GOD says “I AM strong and you are in MY family.” I gladly place my faith in GOD’s reputation for delivering me every time.

 

Challenge

• What reputations are mentioned by the writer?
• Have you ever felt mislabeled by other people?
• Will you put your trust in the LORD today who brings you through all situations for HIS purpose?

Barriers Removed

Barriers Removed

Hebrews 11: ²⁹ It was faith that made the Israelites able to cross the Red Sea as if on dry land; when the Egyptians tried to do it, the water swallowed them up.

 

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“But I don’t know anything about the business side” was my nervous response when offered a position I was unfamiliar. My entire career had been spent in technology and I was now being asked to move into operating the business from a nontechnical view. “Don’t worry about it” was the response. They cleared all barriers to getting the position.

 

• I felt I did not have the skills to do the position.
• I wondered why I was chosen for the position.
• I nervously stepped into the position and made it safely through.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives a strange example of faith. He mentions the Israelites “ability” to cross the Red Sea as if on dry land, while the Egyptians could not. Many of the Israelites were nervous and later they complained about Moses and ultimately, GOD. Yet GOD protected them.

 

My Observations:

• GOD protects me in spite of my doubt, fears and worries.
• GOD knew I would mess up and HE protects me anyway.
• GOD sees all hearts and protects me from those who try to stop me from serving HIM.

 

Serving GOD pleases HIM, but causes the enemy to get upset. I mean, when I put my mind and heart into action for doing something meaningful for CHRIST, GOD gets excited. Unfortunately, it causes me to rile up Satan who, in turn, tries to place obstacles in my way. BUT GOD sees the obstacles and removes them.

 

It is not because I am faithful and sinless, it’s because HE is faithful and sinless. JESUS faced every temptation I could ever face and more. HE did not sin when tempted and was murdered by HIS own creation. HE was raised from the dead and provides the HOLY SPIRIT to live in those who believe in HIM. HE did it all and did not rely on my faulty faithfulness. I am glad GOD is faithful to me.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention faith when it came to the unfaithful Israelites?
• Have you ever sinned and were nervous about receiving punishment from GOD?
• Are you doubting HIS love for you because of your current situation?
• Will you believe in HIS power over your situation and believe HE is faithful to you even though you cannot possibly be faithful to HIM because we are all sinners?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please protect this reader from his or her thinking. Please guide us from worry, fear and doubt. Show us YOUR faithfulness, especially when we are unfaithful. Thank YOU! amen

Dangers and Troubles

Dangers and Troubles

Hebrews 11: ²⁷ It was faith that made Moses leave Egypt without being afraid of the king's anger. As though he saw the invisible God, he refused to turn back. ²⁸ It was faith that made him establish the Passover and order the blood to be sprinkled on the doors, so that the Angel of Death would not kill the first-born sons of the Israelites.

 

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Driving in a neighborhood that was known for its dangers, I made a wrong turn. I ended up on a dead end street, similar to those seen in movies. I panicked as I looked in my rear view mirror to see who was converging on me. No one was around. I simply backed up and drove away.

 

• I brought worry and fear into the situation.
• I worried about what could happen instead of seeing what was happening.
• I thought the worst, instead of thinking of the best.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, continues his faith examples with another aspect from Moses. Danger would not stop Moses from doing what the LORD said to do. He boldly left Egypt after GOD sent plagues, making Pharoah desire to send the slaves away. GOD also protected those who believed in placing blood on their doors from the final plague, namely Angel of Death.

 

My Observations:

• My fears can diminish my faith in GOD.
• GOD loves when I face my fears by turning to HIM for the answers.
• GOD specializes in protection and deliverance, even when things seem bleak.

 

In the middle of danger and trouble, GOD wants me to take a deep breath and keep moving towards HIM. I mean, things may seem impossible with no way out and no solution at hand. GOD steps in and provides when I stay the course.

 

HE knows I am still afraid. BUT HE also knows how to provide for me when I get nervous and need HIM to show me the way. I am glad GOD takes care of my deepest fears and addresses all situations with HIS loving power.

 

Challenge

• How do the two examples of the writer relate to each other?
• Have you ever faced danger or trouble and panicked?
• Will you take faith into your next encounter with danger or trouble so you can calm down enough to hear GOD, and be delivered from evil that day?

Comfort Zone

Comfort Zone

Hebrews 11: ²⁴ It was faith that made Moses, when he had grown up, refuse to be called the son of the king's daughter. ²⁵ He preferred to suffer with God's people rather than to enjoy sin for a little while. ²⁶ He reckoned that to suffer scorn for the Messiah was worth far more than all the treasures of Egypt, for he kept his eyes on the future reward.

 

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“You can go to another department, but I talked to people about you” were the discouraging words given to me in an ultimatum sort of way. The position I held was being “eliminated” and I could have stayed, but under duress.

 

• I chose to leave, but wanted to stay.
• I was confused by leaving, because it was under intense stress.
• I felt I would be better off without a job than to stay and be put under that kind of abuse.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives another example of faith. He previously mentioned Moses’s parents, now he is focused on him. Moses could have lived his entire life in comfort because he was adopted into the Pharoah’s family. But he chose to leave when he found out he was a Hebrew, who were slaves at the time.

 

My Observations:

• Money and comfort are not worth losing my soul.
• Comfortable living may sometimes make me stay away from GOD’s path.
• My focus should be on GOD and take or leave comfort.

 

Living for GOD does not have to be hard, but can be sometimes. I mean, GOD does not seem to mind when humans have comforts, but when HE allows those comforts to be removed, HE checks our reaction to see if the comfort was placed over our relationship with HIM.

 

GOD wants me to choose HIM over any comfort the world offers because Satan can offer comforts as a way to take my eyes off of JESUS. HE wants me to look beyond current comfort and to seek HIS face daily. I am glad GOD provides rewards I cannot yet see.

 

Challenge

• What suffering does the writer speak about?
• Have you ever chose a harder route over a comfortable route because of the principle of the matter?
• If you face a choice between the world’s comfort versus GOD’s uncomfortable plan, will you ask HIM for fortitude to choose HIS way over the comfortable way?

Seeing Beyond

Seeing Beyond

Hebrews 11: ²³ It was faith that made the parents of Moses hide him for three months after he was born. They saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were not afraid to disobey the king's order.

 

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Opening the mailbox, I pulled out a stack of bills. “When will this ever end?” I said with a sigh. I had just enough to pay all of them, but I decided to go in with a few “friends” and throw  a party. After the party was over, everyone left and I still had the bills.

 

• I had a moment of fun but now I was worried.
• I had a time of pleasure but now I had to face my problem.
• I had obligations but could not see beyond a moment of pleasure.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives another example of faith. He mentions the parents of Moses disobeying the king’s order to murder all children under a certain age. They hid Moses instead of following the decree and risked death in doing so. They did not get caught up in the moment.

 

My Observations:

• Worries may cause me to make snap decisions, BUT GOD wants me to calm down to hear HIS voice.
• Problems may cause me to want immediate ways to get relief, BUT GOD desires that I seek HIS solution.
• Human situations may cause me to have pain, BUT GOD wants me to see beyond the pain and to know HE is in control.

 

Seeing beyond the pain is hard. I mean, who wants pain? Noone! But there is an enemy that wants me and you to experience enough pain to question GOD or even turn from HIS solution, namely JESUS as the Savior. Circumstance after circumstance, the devil wages war to make me discouraged. BUT GOD sees his attacks and steps in.

 

GOD whispers “Think beyond this circumstance” by telling me “Keep your eyes on ME.” When I look at GOD and take my eyes off of the circumstance, I can see hope, and love that I could not see when I looked at the problem. HE then resolves problems in HIS way and time. I am glad HE cares deeply for me and you.

 

Challenge

• According to the writer, what act of faith was performed?
• Have you ever had to stand on faith even when, seemingly, everyone around you was going in a different direction?
• Will you ask GOD to fortify your faith in HIM so you can stand firm for HIM today?

Big Dreamers Look Forward

Big Dreamers Look Forward

Hebrews 11: ²² It was faith that made Joseph, when he was about to die, speak of the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, and leave instructions about what should be done with his body.

 

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Reasoning with GOD, I thought of the things “I” had done for HIM. “Remember the time when I…” was my argument that I thought of. I was going through a rough time and I wanted GOD to clear it up immediately. Not only did the problem persist, other problems piled on.

 

• I wanted out of the trial I was going through.
• I looked back on a few times when I thought I was being “good.”
• I expected GOD to get me out of the trial if HE would simply realize “I” have been trying.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives another example of faith. This time he mentions Joseph, who had the gift of interpreting dreams. He also was given huge dreams by GOD. He was hated, lied on and falsely imprisoned, yet he rose up to heights unimaginable. He did not look at his achievements as a fulfilled dream.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s plans far exceed my life.
• I am only a part of GOD’s entire plan.
• Any accomplishment I do is only part of the dream ahead.

 

Dreaming brings on faith and faith brings on dreams. I mean, when I look forward to a better place, my dreams and thoughts brings on faith that GOD will provide that better place. I then hear from GOD through problems HE wants me to solve. HE provides the plan that sometimes seems overwhelming.

 

GOD wants me to look forward to HIS solution rather than looking backward at “my” accomplishments. HE was the one who enabled me to accomplish everything, so I cannot take credit. I gladly look forward to what HE will do and what HE will provide.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer focus on the time when Joseph was about to die as an example of faith?
• Have you ever had a big dream and got nervous that the dream was much bigger than you?
• Will you ask GOD for the faith it will take for HIS plan to be manifested through your efforts in HIS time and HIS way?

Keeping the Fire

Keeping the Fire

Hebrews 11: ²¹ It was faith that made Jacob bless each of the sons of Joseph just before he died. He leaned on the top of his walking stick and worshiped God.

 

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“Didn’t you try that years ago?” was the question posed to me in disbelief. I was asking some of the same people to get on board of something that took a long, long time to get ready. It took so long, that people forgot what I was working on.

 

• I felt embarrassed that it took so long to get started.
• I felt uneasy about asking the same people to be excited after so many years.
• I felt I needed to keep the same level of excitement as when I first started.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, continues the list of faith examples with Jacob, otherwise known as Israel. Jacob had been a liar and a sneak, but GOD changed his name to Israel, which means GOD preserves. At a very old age, Jacob remained loyal to GOD. He required a walking stick after wrestling GOD at a young age. He remained on fire until his death.

 

My Observations:

• Difficult times may make me want to leave GOD, BUT where would I go?
• Starting off with GOD can be exciting to me, but staying with HIM is more exciting to HIM.
• Being able to praise GOD at an old age is the goal HE wants me to have.

 

Remaining excited about GOD can be difficult. I mean, life can dish out some very rough circumstances. Loss of health, relationships and income, could leave people wondering “Where is GOD?” BUT GOD is there, always!

 

HE provides in ways I cannot see or understand. HE blesses me in spite of me. HE raises me up when I should be torn down. GOD and GOD alone should be praised all the time. I am glad HE cares for me!

 

Challenge

• Why did the writer choose someone sneaky as an example of faith?
• Have you ever gone through some rough times and wanted to give up on GOD?
• Will you examine your thinking about what HE really wants you to “be” and accept HIS love for you so you can praise HIM today and always?

In Spite Of

 

In Spite Of

Hebrews 11: ²⁰ It was faith that made Isaac promise blessings for the future to Jacob and Esau.

 

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“I don’t know how to do this” was my statement to a person who was building a team. “Don’t worry about that” was his reply to my concern. I had not lead a team as large as he was going to place me over and I was concerned that I could fail. “Don’t worry” was his reply.

 

• I did not know I was being watched over.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” performance rather that I was part of something bigger.
• I did not know that it was not about “my” abilities, rather it was much greater than me.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith that was a continuation of Abraham’s blessing. He briefly mentioned Isaac, possibly due to the fact that people referred to him in a revered way. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were an imperfect human shadow of the trinity of GOD. They were used in spite of their imperfections.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac was part of the promise made to Abraham, so even if he made mistakes, he was blessed.
• GOD promised Abraham that his descendants would be blessed and as numerous as sand or stars.
• GOD sees my sins and still uses me, in spite of my sins.

 

Imperfect people doing imperfect things to birth perfection seems impossible. I mean, lies, deception and hurt were the makeup of the family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The whole story seemed quite messed up. Yet GOD blessed them in spite of them. HIS blessings could not be stopped by their sins.

 

GOD saw what they would do and say and had a purpose for humanity, namely the birth of JESUS. HE somehow wants to use imperfect people to tell HIS perfect story of redemption. I am glad I do not have to be perfect and that GOD can use me in spite of my sins.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use this example?
• Have you ever thought you needed to be perfect or sinless or that GOD thinks less of you?
• Will you stop focusing on yourself and focus on GOD’s love so HE can show you HIS power through you today?

It Has To Make Sense

It Has To Make Sense

Hebrews 11: ¹⁷ It was faith that made Abraham offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice when God put Abraham to the test. Abraham was the one to whom God had made the promise, yet he was ready to offer his only son as a sacrifice. ¹⁸ God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that you will have the descendants I promised.” ¹⁹ Abraham reckoned that God was able to raise Isaac from death—and, so to speak, Abraham did receive Isaac back from death.

 

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“Try praying more” someone told me. Another person said “Try fasting.” Yet another person said “Have you confessed any sin you did?” I was facing a difficult situation and well meaning people were trying to give e advice. None of their advice made sense to me at the time.

 

• I did not know what GOD was doing and I wrestled with going through pain.
• I had people trying to help me make sense out of a painful situation, but quick remedies did not make sense.
• I had to reason out what GOD was doing and when I did, I was able to place my faith in HIM.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, was truly impressed by Abraham’s faith. He provides another example of his faith. Abraham did not know what GOD was going to do. He was told by GOD to sacrifice his son. Abraham reasoned through the atrocity by believing GOD was powerful enough to raise Isaac from the dead. His reasoning brought on faith.

 

My Observations:

• My faith in GOD needs the illogical to become logical to me.
• In order for me to place my faith in GOD, it has to make sense to me.
• Even the things that seem out of the ordinary have to make senses to me in my heart.

 

Let’s face it, there are quite a few stories that seem unimaginable in the Bible. I mean, dead people getting raised, sick people being healed and murderers being converted to missionaries, seem a bit farfetched.  BUT GOD opens my eyes to HIS power and theses examples make sense.

 

HE shows us HIS love for us through many examples and HE let’s me know HE still can do the same for me. I can then put my faith in the unknown, more and more. I can look back at all the examples and relate them to my own. GOD helps me make sense out of today by providing HIS deliverance yesterday. I am glad HE wants me to see HIS power in action.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer chose this example?
• Is there a circumstance that you are going through that seems difficult?
• Will you ask GOD questions and seek answers from the Bible so you can be guided in knowledge to strengthen your faith today?

Facing Forward

 

Facing Forward

Hebrews 11: ¹³ It was in faith that all these persons died. They did not receive the things God had promised, but from a long way off they saw them and welcomed them, and admitted openly that they were foreigners and refugees on earth. ¹⁴ Those who say such things make it clear that they are looking for a country of their own. ¹⁵ They did not keep thinking about the country they had left; if they had, they would have had the chance to return. ¹⁶ Instead, it was a better country they longed for, the heavenly country. And so God is not ashamed for them to call him their God, because he has prepared a city for them.

 

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As I dug through a box of stuff, I found trophies, ribbons and paper awards from a previous job. “All of these achievements and I am out of work!” I said with anger. More and more thoughts played through my mind that day. I got nothing done.

 

• I loved the kingdom “I” had built for myself.
• I thought I had already “achieved” the most that I could.
• I did not consider that there could possibly be anything better than the past.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, summarizes his first list of faith examples. He implied that these people did things in faith of a promise by GOD, never once hoping for the old way. They stopped looking for a better place here on earth, to seek a better relationship with GOD.

 

My Observations:

• GOD heals me from past wounds so I can look forward to HIS kingdom.
• GOD opens my eyes to HIS promises, so I can keep moving forward, away from the old.
• GOD renews my strength by showing me there is a better place ahead.

 

Looking forward is scary sometimes. I mean, the future sometimes does not have any answers, but a lot of questions. When I begin to ask questions, I get nervous and want to run back to the past where it was comfortable. BUT GOD has something else in mind.

 

HE wants me to leave the past kingdom with a definitive “thanks.” I can say to HIM “Thank YOU for what YOU have done!” and move on. I can then say “Thank YOU for what YOU are going to do”, not knowing if I will receive HIS promise or not. I am glad HE puts me on a new path and always keeps HIS promise.

 

Challenge

• What did the people in the writer’s example long for?
• Have you ever started something and someone else finished it?
• Will you say “Thank You” for the past and move on to facing  forward so you can allow GOD to place you on HIS path to HIS promise in HIS timing today?

Impossible Dreams Fulfilled

Impossible Dreams Fulfilled

Hebrews 11: ¹¹ It was faith that made Abraham able to become a father, even though he was too old and Sarah herself could not have children. He trusted God to keep his promise. ¹² Though Abraham was practically dead, from this one man came as many descendants as there are stars in the sky, as many as the numberless grains of sand on the seashore.

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“I’m never going to get this right?” I said in frustration. I was trying to do long division and it didn’t make sense. But eventually I understood it after being frustrated. “I’m never going to graduate” and “I’m never going to get a job” and “I’m never going to get…” have been words I used in frustration when I could not see how it was going to happen.

 

• I was frustrated because I could not see a solution.
• I was nervous and scared many times because I could not figure out how things would turn out.
• I felt that things should be better and I could not see how it was going to happen.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another faith example. This time he showed how GOD overcomes the impossible. If anyone were to think that a women who, throughout life could not have children, suddenly could become pregnant by her husband who was older than most people, all would say “this is impossible.”

 

My Observations

• GOD chooses the impossible to show me that only HE can solve my situations.
• Some circumstances I get into seem to have no solution, BUT GOD has one already planned.
• Faith that GOD has the situation taken care of comes hard to me, but eventually I have to get there.

 

Believing the impossible can happen is scary. I mean, if I tell people what GOD has in store for me and it does not happen in the time “I” think it should happen, people, including myself, would become discouraged. BUT GOD sees this and laughs at what I think is impossible.

 

GOD seems to love doing the impossible. HE enabled an elderly, barren couple to have a baby when HE could have used a young fertile couple. That would not have been amazing. HE wants me to know that HE is GOD and that HIS solutions cannot come from anywhere but HIM. I gladly yield to HIS great and marvelous power.

 

Challenge

• What impossible dream do you think the writer gave?
• Have you ever felt there was more to life for you, but you gave up on dreams because it has not happened for you yet?
• Will you renew your faith that GOD can and will revive the situation you thought was dead if you place your faith in HIM today?