We stand at the entrance of the year 2022, not knowing exactly what is ahead. But we can be certain it is one of triumph and opportunity as we activate our faith.
Heb. 11:1 - Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Faith is like dynamite. It seems like such a small thing but contains so much power to change the world. As God has dealt to each one a measure of faith (Rom 12:3), everyone’s faith produces something different to build the kingdom.
Heb. 11:7 - Noah’s faith built the ark,
Heb. 11:8 - Abraham’s faith propelled him to leave his birth place and inherit a promised land.
Heb. 11:11 - Sarah’s faith conceived a child, although she was barren.
Heb. 11:22 - Joseph’s faith saw into the future and saved a nation.
Heb. 11:29 - Moses’ faith brought deliverance to a nation.
Heb. 11:30 - Joshua’s faith conquered a land and demolished the walls of Jericho.
Matt. 16:18 - Peter’s faith built the church,
Rom. 16:15 - Paul’s faith evangelized the gentiles.
God is still writing His story. He has entrusted each of us with a part and we are all needed to complete it. So, if you have become weary or discouraged, this is just a sign that the enemy is only trying to prevent you from building God's kingdom. Our faith is on the line!
Heb. 11:33-38 - By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. Women received their loved ones back again from death. But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. They placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection. Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons. Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half, and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated. They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground.
Whatever your part of the story looks like, may you know that God has equipped you with everything you need. May we all activate the faith given to us so that we can fulfill our destiny, whether it is raising children, working in a factory or being a business owner. The kingdom is necessary in all these places and our little piece of the puzzle matters in light of the whole picture. May our names be listed in the archives of heroes.
Heb. 11:39 - These were the true heroes, commended for their faith, yet they lived in hope without receiving the fullness of what was promised them. But now God has invited us to live in something better than what they had—faith’s fullness! This is so that they could be brought to finished perfection alongside of us.
Lord, we receive this invitation of faith’s fullness!