Faith in the Long-Term Promise

Scripture: 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. Hebrews 11:13

Observation: The writer reviews the actions of several people of faith - Abel, Noah, Enoch, Abraham, Sarah - and finds that all of them showed faith in the long-term promises of God. These promises were so long term that they were not to happen in their lifetimes. They gave away their current status - be it in land, possessions, or reputation - and lived into a promise that was for a future beyond themselves. They accepted the role of strangers on the earth, because they understood that their home was actually in the heavenly country of the Lord.

This is the ultimate long-term promise ... life eternal in heaven, where there are no hardships, no pain, no sorrow.

Application: I am looking for God's promises here on earth. However, I know the promises I have in heaven, and honestly ... they are more real to me, and more certain, than the life here that can be attacked by evil. Everything on earth can be taken away (though I have faith in the Lord for protection and good), but nothing can remove my long-term promise.

I am moving into a new country here on earth. It may be near or far. It may be stable or uncertain. It may involve a hard burden. However, as I live into that life with faith, I know it is part of God's promise. I may, in fact, someday die wishing I had received an easier life on earth, but that is ultimately inconsequential to the love and promise I know lies ahead.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the salvation of Jesus. It is an overwhelming promise and act of love, that you would care enough for mankind, and for me, to provide the means to live with you. Great is your faithfulness. Guide me daily here in this country, for by faith I know that someday I will be home with you. Amen.