We all need encouragement from time to time and I think we need it more than ever with all the horrible things going on in our world and country. There have been two chapters in the Bible that I have been thinking about that gives me encouragement: Hebrews, chapters 11 and 12. I like to call Heb. 11 the “Hall of Faith” chapter. It is full of names from the Old Testament that are there because of the faith they demonstrated in their lives. These Old Testament figures of faith acted in hope, performed miracles, received strength in battle, and endured tribulation. What examples they are to us! Heb. 11:39 says:
“All these, having obtained a good testimony through faith did not receive the promise.”
They were able to endure and press on because their faith was based on something they believed God would do in the future. What was that something? It was the coming of the Savior of the world. And what does this mean for us? Heb. 12:2 tells us:
“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
No matter what we may be going through, our “key” is to “look unto Jesus,” and realize one day we will be with Him in the glories of heaven; all made possible because of what He did for us on the cross.
As Christians, we have a hope that unbelievers don’t have. No matter what may happen to us, or how difficult and trying life may get; heaven is our hope and our home. That’s the promise we look forward to. So, as we keep our eyes on Jesus, we will be able to do what Phil. 3:14 says:
“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
That’s our hope! That’s our “know so” hope!