Thursday, November 12

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015

Ezekiel 12:1–14:11

Hebrews 7:1–17

Psalm 105:37–45

Proverbs 27:3

 

 

Have you ever felt that you didn’t belong?  I am referring not to the feelings of insecurity that we sometimes encounter, but rather the recognition of being out of place or simply unlike the others.  We may commonly find this experience when we travel internationally.  We may have a number of reasons for visiting this faraway place, but we are definitely not “home.”

 

In Hebrews 11, the author introduces us to the Hall of Faith and recounts the faithfulness of key Old Testament figures.  He defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (11:1)  Each of the individuals mentioned herein overcame uncertainty through faithfully following God -- and experiencing His faithfulness in return.  The nature of faith involves “earnestly seek[ing]” after God.  It includes a rational understanding of truth and a passionate engagement of the heart.  True to His Word, God will indeed meet us when we seek Him.

 

In 11:13-16, we read about the “pilgrim” nature of these Old Testament heroes.  These heroes “did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.”  Their hearts focused on seeking God and His Kingdom.  In turn, “God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he prepared a city for them.”  The Lord Jesus Christ described homes only in heaven; throughout the Scriptures, this world seems just temporary in relation to the permanence of heaven.

 

What may we learn from this “pilgrim” existence?  What does it mean for us in 2015?  In short, I believe that we may imitate our predecessors in the faith through declaring our allegiance to and committing our lives to God’s Kingdom.  This Kingdom does not start only in heaven; rather, He has called us to invest in the lives of people and in knowing Him better right now.  Our hearts find great joy in resting in Him and believing Him for transformation, integrity, and fullness.  “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

 

Therefore, please do not worry if you feel that you don’t belong.  Clearly, many people of faith have experienced similar feelings, and it seems a natural outcropping of the pilgrimage of seeking God.  Rejoice in His awesome purpose and the joy of joining Him!

 

 

Lord God, thank You for calling us to be pilgrims and foreigners in this world but giving us a true home in heaven.  We seek You today and desire to know You better and to honor You through loving Your people.  Give us wisdom in how we allocate our time and resources to fulfill Your purposes.  We love You and rejoice in You.  In Jesus’s Name, amen.

 

 

“We Are Not Home Yet”:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-A1u-Zfal8

 

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