What Keeps Ordinary People Going?
Scripture Reading — Hebrews 11:1-6
Faith is being sure of what we hope for ... Hebrews 11:1
At the beginning of my work in ministry I used to call on a friend who'd been in bed for more than 10 years. Because of a debilitating disease, he could not move a muscle. In spite of his condition, though, he would often say, "God is so good!" I sometimes asked myself how he could say that, and how he and his wife were able to keep going. The answer to those questions is in Hebrews 11. The recurring refrain throughout this chapter is "... by faith." It was the gift of faith that kept God's people going even under the most difficult circumstances. They were ordinary people, like us, with the same kinds of weaknesses, feelings, and emotions. They too gave in to temptations. They too must have had their doubts at times. They too must have wondered at times where God was. But it was because of God's gift of faith that these ordinary people were able to live extraordinary lives. It is by faith that you and I will be able to keep going this year. Receive God's gift of faith, and through the eyes of faith you will be able to see the One who is "the author and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2). Make sure you have received the gift of faith by turning to the Lord Jesus Christ. It's the only way to keep going throughout the coming year.
Father in heaven, we thank you for the gift of faith. Help us to look at life through the eyes of faith; help us as ordinary people to live extraordinary lives. In Jesus,
About the author — Arthur J. Schoonveld
Rev. Art Schoonveld is a retired minister in the Christian Reformed Church. Before retiring in 2001, he served churches in California, Illinois, and Michigan. Since his retirement he has worked part-time for the denomination and has served as an interim pastor. Art and his wife, Anita, have four children and nine grandchildren.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!