Hebrews 11: 39-40
A weekday morning devotional series written by Aaron Marcarelli and hosted by Chad McBeam
“And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.”
Hebrews 11:39-40 NASB2020
In spite of all their faith the men and women of the Old Testament did not know the full blessings of forgiveness and fellowship of the living God. Yes they had sacrifices, yes they had theirs days of atonement, but it’s not the same and some even spoke with God. They did not have Christ’s atoning forgiveness through Calvary nor did they have the gift of the Holy Spirit. They did have as the Wycliffe Study Bible puts it like this: “They lived in anticipation of the new covenant, but without its full provisions. They had a positive and effective witness and having been born witness to, through their faith became an attestation to God himself. In other words they became a witness of God’s wonder working miracles in their lives.
Each of these “heroes” represents some aspect of a life of faith. Some were perfectly obedient, and others were acting on the promises yet to come, still others trusted in the But God moment.
The lesson here is that faith in God is awesome but faith in God through Christ is far superior than the legalism of Jewish law.
The writer of Hebrews makes this argument perfectly clear when He says in Chapter 12 verse 1-3: “Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
It is Christ that is the perfect fruition of faith. Therefore, let us walk in faith of Christ the author and perfecter of our faith.
Lord, thank you for your death, resurrection and ascension. Thank you that we have eternal life with you. Help us to focus on your love and your blessings as we seek to serve others through our faith in you. We pray for all our needs. Lord help us to trust in you and your perfect plan. We pray all this in Jesus Name Amen…
Shalom Blessings and Press In and Press On!