Sometimes people seem to hear from God, but the answer or message is unclear or confusing. Hebrews 11:6 seems to imply a link between belief in God and a reward for following Him. God will honor good works and make people’s lives easier as a result of following Him. When that doesn’t happen, and difficult times come ― as they do for everyone — then confusion and disappointment set in.
What casual readers of the Bible may miss, however, is the rest of Hebrews 11. In this “famous heroes of the Old Testament” chapter, the author describes at length the difficulties experienced by the ancients. In each example he gives, the writer describes how people like Noah and Abraham listened to God and obeyed in faith, without knowing the outcome.
The key to the chapter, and a deeper understanding of the rewards to those who seek Him, is an awareness of the temporary nature of our lives on earth. Hebrews 11 ends by referring to the fact that none of these Old Testament faithful folk that are mentioned received their rewards on earth, since ...God had planned something better for [them]… {Hebrews 11:39).
What are you praying for now? What have you been pleading with God about forever and yet haven’t heard a response? Maybe you should be asking your Heavenly Father for His perspective ― for a deeper awareness that He is listening and that His promises are true. Then, perhaps you will listen more closely for His answer and take it in faith, even if it is not clear right now.
Oh God, help me to see glimpses of how you are using my experiences in life to shape me and make me more like you. Help me to obey even when it doesn’t make sense. Amen.
Go Deeper – Invite God to show you what He wants to accomplish in the lives of others through the witness of your faithful obedience.
Photo Credit: Robson Hatsukami Morgan