~ FOCUS ON HEAVEN ~ DRAWING NEAR... JOHN MACARTHUR By faith [Abraham] lived as an alien in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Heb. 11:9-10). Following Gods call isnt always easy. He expects us to trust Him explicitly, yet doesnt ask our advise on decisions that may impact us dramatically. He doesnt tell us His specific plans at any given point in our lives. He doesnt always shelter us from adversity. He tests our faith to produce endurance and spiritual maturity--tests that are sometimes painful. He makes some promises that well never see fulfilled in this life. If following Gods call is a challenge for us, imagine how it was for Abraham, who had no Bible, no pastor, no sermons, no commentaries, and no Christian encouragement or accountability. But what he did have was the promise of a nation, a land, and a blessing (Gen. 12:1-3). That was good enough for him. Abraham never settled in the land of promise. Neither did his son Isaac or grandson Jacob. They were aliens, dwelling in tents like nomads. Abraham never built houses or cities. The only way he would possess the land was by faith. Yet Abraham patiently waited for Gods promises to be fulfilled. As important as the earthly land was to him, Abraham was patient because his sight was on his heavenly home, the city . . . whose architect and builder is God (Heb. 11:10). He knew beyond any doubt that he would inherit that city, whether or not he ever saw his earthly home in his lifetime. Similarly, being heavenly minded gives you the patience to continue working for the Lord when things get tough. Its the best cure I know for discouragement or spiritual fatigue. Thats why Paul says to set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth (Col. 3:2). If your mind is set on heaven, you can endure whatever happens here. Suggestions for Prayer: Praise God for your heavenly home. Seek His grace to help you keep a proper perspective amid the difficulties of this life. For Further Study: Read the portion of Abrahams life recorded in Genesis 12- 17.
Posted on: Mon, 18 Nov 2013 23:13:36 +0000
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