“Consider the outcome of their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:7-8
Dust drifted up from the old suitcase as Dad & I poured over old pictures, brittle birth certificates and worn out pages, making a map of our family history. It was good. It gave me a knowledge of where I came from.
Yet regardless of our individual family histories, as Christians we have a specific heritage. God spells out the family archives for us, so we have a sense of our roots and a knowledge of belonging.
Hebrews chapter 11 lists some of our spiritual ancestors who inspire us with their faith.
- Abraham, who heard God say “go” and he went, not knowing his destination;
- Noah, who prepared for a flood while the sun shone and the people laughed;
- Joseph, who trusted his God even when his family deserted him and he found himself in a strange land;
- Moses, who believed God and led the people to the Red Sea which God parted miraculously to make a way where there was no way;
- Joshua, who obeyed the “off the wall” instructions to march around the city of Jericho with lanterns and captured it by faith without a battle.
It’s important to recall those who have gone before us. It helps keep our eyes focused on Jesus and our feet from getting tangled in distractions.
Thank God today for your spiritual family archives. He will be as faithful to you as He was to our forefathers. You have a powerful heritage!
Father God, thank You for the knowledge that the God of yesterday is still the God of today. Remind me of this as I go through my day and as I trust You in the hard spots. Thank You that I belong to this family of believers. Thank You that this history is my history. Help me to walk by faith and to keep my eyes focused on Your strength today. I love You Lord. Please keep my feet from being tangled in the distractions of my day. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Take Action
Think about your own story of growing in faith. Consider telling your story to encourage others. You have a heritage to pass along too. Find out how here: http://thelife.com/series/your-story-matters