Live by the promises of God

Hebrews 11:20-22 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even regarding things to come. By faith Jacob, as he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the exodus of the sons of Israel, and gave orders concerning his bones. Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph demonstrated faith because they believed what God told Abraham, their father. God promised that Abraham’s descendants would be through Isaac, so they could, with assurance and confidence, bless their descendants. Their testimonies of faith honor God, who made the promises and granted them faith to act on them. Joseph gave instructions when he was dying, also based on faith in God’s word to Abraham about the land of promise. We are encouraged by Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph because we too have God’s promise given to us in Christ. God has prepared a place for us in heaven. Through His Son’s ministry as our high priest, we have confident access to God so we may receive mercy and grace in time of need. No matter what we face in our lives, we know we are not alone and without hope. What are you facing today? Is there anything that you are afraid of or concerned about? Do you feel overwhelmed, weak, rejected? Are you in the middle of a raging storm with no end in sight? Believe God's promises in Christ and draw near and hold fast to your confession that you are a stranger and exile here on the earth but have a God who has the grace you need to glorify Him. Let’s let Paul’s understanding of this truth encourage us. Concerning this [a long-lasting storm in life], I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. Do you get it? Paul knew he would receive grace for the day if he drew near to God. The trials of the day were purposed by God so the power of Christ might dwell in him. It is with that confidence that we go through life. Whatever we need to glorify God by living to love and trust Him will be granted as we draw near to the throne of grace. We too can live by the promises of God in Christ.