Not Shrinking Back – Week Five

Faith is future-oriented.

When circumstances say, “give up,” men and women of faith say, “not me!” Faith presses in and pushes forward, despite all odds. Faith knows that what is happening right now is not the final result. Faith sees beyond today and lives out of the hope of tomorrow.

As Hebrews 10:39 NASB declares, “We are not those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the persevering of the soul.”

Hebrews 11 shares story after story of faith, but ends with this thought, “all of these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God has provided something better for us, so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.” (Hebrews 11:39-40)

The men and women highlighted as our example did not fully receive the promises. God had something more in mind. Their lives were not just about the time and space they occupied but about God’s eternal story.

Ultimately, all our lives are designed to tell God’s story of redemption. Our purpose is His glory and pointing people to Him. Yet, we are often so caught up in the here and now, we forget the big picture. Our God is not limited by time and space, and the story we are telling can be His story. Therefore, our impact can reach beyond our capacity, our abilities, and our lifespan.

Consider Joseph. Personally, I find his story to be one of the most encouraging and inspiring in the Bible. Joseph dreamed a dream, and then life seemed to take him in the exact opposite of that dream. But in reality, each stop on his journey (including prison) was preparing him to fulfill God’s plan.

However, when the author of Hebrews tells Joseph’s story, he doesn’t mention any of that. Instead, we read, “By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the exodus of the sons of Israel, and gave orders concerning his bones.” (Hebrews 11:22) It seems that Joseph’s most significant act of faith was not his leadership ability, trusting God in the pit, or saving nations from famine. From God’s perspective, Joseph’s faith was strongest in his dying days.

Joseph knew that God’s promise did not end with his life. Four hundred years later, the Israelites would leave Egypt to return to the promised land. Their deliverance would paint a picture of the future redemption of all humanity.

Faith is always future-focus and salvation-centered.

I Peter 1:7-9 explains, “the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.”

Your faith can withstand all obstacles because you can see forward to the final result. God will not leave you in the dark. He knows you, He knows your challenges, and He knows the outcome.