Experiencing God's Presence #23

Experiencing God's Presence #23

It was by faith that . . .

Hebrews 11:7

Hebrews 11 is a landmark chapter in Scripture—the Hall of Fame of faith, as many call it. It describes the experiences of those who heard God, believed Him, and followed Him into His purposes. Verses 4, 5, 7, 8, and 11 begin with “it was by faith that . . .” and are followed by the heroic exploits of those who believed. Repeatedly, this chapter and Scripture as a whole affirm that we aren’t just called to believe in God’s existence and seek to know Him, we are invited into a working partnership with Him. We become, as Paul called it, His co-workers (2 Corinthians 6:1, NIV). We join Him in His mission.

This was true even in the Garden, where God told Adam and Eve that they were to subdue the earth He had created. We see it in Isaiah, where God looked around for people to intercede (59:16) and where He urged His watchmen to pray ceaselessly for Him to do what He already said He wanted to do (62:6). God created human beings to know Him and love Him, but the relationship includes quite a few joint efforts. We are bound to Him not only for salvation but also for working with Him and, ultimately, reigning with Him.

God’s goal for your faith is not just salvation. It’s a deep and lasting partnership in which He accomplishes His purposes through you. He is powerful enough to do anything He wants without anyone’s help, but power isn’t the issue. This God of relationship doesn’t often work in this world independently. He wants to work with you and through you. It’s His way of ensuring that His Presence is known and experienced by those He loves. And it’s a vital way in which you come to know Him.

Father, I realize that if I don’t partner with You by faith to accomplish Your purposes, I can’t experience You as fully as You want. Please lead me by faith into great exploits for Your Kingdom.