Observation: In the list of the faithful in Hebrews, this is what is said of Moses. Moses could have lived like a prince, but instead embraced his Jewish life, did slave labor, and eventually was forced to flee as a murderer. The writer declares he did this because he wasn't living within a present treasure, but was looking to the future reward of Jesus and life with God.
This is one of the major tenants of faith, that there is a future situation where faith produces reward. We may have current blessings, and we may also have current hardships, but they are both temporary and small. Rather, the greatest thing in our lives is a future we have to look ahead to, and involves eternity in the presence of the Lord.
Application: This is the hope I do cling to. I have ... issues ... in my life. They range from pain in my body, to mental turmoil reconciling my thoughts and actions, to difficult tasks I struggle to do at work, to conflict from time to time with others. However, I have hope that, by my faith in Jesus, one day all these things will go away and I will live forever in the presence of the Lord.
I do truly know that. I hope to cling to it more and more, and be able to enter into that hope in a positive way one day. Also, I'd like to live more and more within the teachings of Jesus so that my current life - while I know it would still have issues - would have fewer challenges, for I know the Lord's will is for the best in my life.
I do regard disgrace for the sake of Christ to be of the greatest value. I would rather be known for my faith, than known for any other activity.
Prayer: Lord, today as I sit here, I am not truly known for my faith. I know myself for my sins, and most others know me for my work. I would like to change both of those situations, beginning within my own heart and in your wonderful eyes. I know you see me. May I remember that daily. Amen.
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