September 13, 2018
Hebrews 11:17-22 Good News Translation (GNT)
What do you prize most or hold dear in life? Sometimes we hold possessions, people, jobs, dreams, etc.; yet, God must be our first love. Uncontrolled circumstances in life have a way of revealing what we hold most dear. This morning I am praying for the people whose lives are about to be impacted and faith tested with the approach of Hurricane Florence to the southeastern coast of the United States. I ask you to join me in prayer as this storm will be devastating to many, many people. May those with living faith in God’s love grab ahold of him for strength, courage, shelter, supply and find him faithful. May those searching for the truth of God—in the midst of the storm—find their eyes have been opened to the existence, great power, and love of God who promises to raise humanity from the ashes of this temporal life into eternal life.
Living faith is speaking and acting in a way today about what we believe God has promised to provide and do in the future. It is walking in obedience to God when our faith is tested like Abraham, remaining hopeful when everything in us wants to feel discouraged because only pieces of his promise have manifest. Living faith is holding on to the promise even if it does not take place in our lifetime like Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Living faith is built on eternal promises and the character of Almighty God and acts accordingly. When life challenges us and our faith is tempted to topple, we must remember God has perfect character and he has promised to provide for his children. We may trust Abba!
Hebrews 11:17-22
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.
20 It was faith that made Isaac promise blessings for the future to Jacob and Esau.
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.
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.
Prayer: Abba Father, we place our trust and faith in your perfect character and we speak to the storm that positions itself to bring destruction. To the storm we say, you have no power to come against the powerful character of Abba to protect and shelter his children. Abba, we thank you for your mercy and loving care of your children; you promised shelter under your mighty wings. Send your angels to encamp among your sons and daughters; bring them as messengers of deliverance, protection, and provision. May more of your creation turn to you, cry out to you, and run for you in Jesus’ name. Amen.