Looking Forward
Looking Forward
Hebrews 11:8-10 (NIV) By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
If I’m going to be a person of faith. . .
1. I’ve got to be willing to obey God, even when it’s uncomfortable.
The reward for obedience to God is always going to be better than I think!
Genesis 15:4 (CSB) Now the word of the Lord came to him: “This one will not be your heir; instead, one who comes from your own body will be your heir.”
Genesis 22:2 (NIV) Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.”
2. I’ve got to be willing to obey God even when I don’t have all the answers.
What motivates a life of faith?
1. Being willing to see that this world, and all it offers, has no foundation.
2. Taking action and building on the right foundation.
John 8:56 (KJV) “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.”
Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) … For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3. Trusting that God is calling me to something better.
4. Understanding that if I know who calls me, I can face anything!
Growing Deeper Together (Small Group Discussion Questions)
Use these points throughout the week as part of your quiet time, in your small group, or over coffee with a friend to help you apply what you learned in today’s message.
Read Hebrews chapter 11. Of the people mentioned there, with whom do you feel you have the most in common? Why? With whom do you have the least in common? Why? Which situation would have been the most difficult for you to face? Why? What does it mean to you that not all of these people of faith met with “success”?
What are some verbs that describe your present level of faith? Why these?
How has your life changed as a result of your faith in God? What has your faith cost you?
Who are some contemporary heroes of faith who inspire you today?
In the section, ‘What motivates a life of faith?’, which area will you focus on in 2024? Write this down in your journal or share it with a friend who can pray for you and encourage you as you grow.
Pastoral study references, attributions, & recommendations: Is That Really You, God?, by Loren Cunningham