Hebrews 11:20—40
INTRODUCTION
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for” (Heb. 11:1 – 2).
Continuing our walk through Faith’s Hall of Fame, we come across a myriad of portraits of like-minded people. Their names are revered among the Jewish people, names like Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses. Mixed in among them are some not so familiar names, names like Rahab, Barak, and Jepthah. What is it about this diverse group of people that brings them together as heroes of faith? "These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised" (Hebrews 11:39).
What all of these men and women of faith had in common was their ability to trust in the promises of God. They did not let the thinking of man come between their ability to think forward to the promises of a better land.
MAIN BODY
I. Forward Thinkers trust in God’s plan.
A. Although Egypt was good to Joseph, he realized God had better plans for Israel.
B. The ultimate blessing in God’s plan is yet to be seen.
1. Matthew 6:19—21
2. 1 Timothy 6:17—19
II. Forward Thinkers forsake earthly pleasures for divine treasure.
A. Moses gave up all the riches of Egypt for the promise of something better.
B. The riches and wealth of this earth are only temporary. (Luke 12:16—31)
C. Those who seek divine treasure will never be in want.
III. Forward Thinkers endure earthy pain for future gain.
A. God disciplines those he loves. (Hebrews 12:7—11)
B. God gives us the tools we need to thrive. (Eph. 6:10—17)
Mitchell Skelton—Minister, Midway church of Christ
http://www.TheLordsWay.com/Midway
