SUNDAY, JULY 17
Scripture: Hebrews 11:6, 35

Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” He did not say those who get what they are believing for – He said those who, “…diligently seek Him.” The issue with God is not so much whether we get it or in faith pass it on to the next generation, but it is whether we diligently, continually seek Him. Those who continually seek are rewarded the same as those who gain what they are believing for. The ones who do not obtain what they are believing for are called people of whom the world is not worthy. It seems that not seeing the object of one’s faith when obediently pursuing can be greatly rewarded when delayed for future generations. Why else would it say in verse 35, “Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.” How many sermons have we ever heard on a ‘better resurrection’? Have we been taught of a better resurrection by foregoing the answer to our prayers? I am not sure I have ever heard teaching on gaining a better resurrection. Is the issue that few would be likely to forego getting what they are praying for? Have we taught people the depth of walking in faith according to Hebrews? Not getting what we are praying for is a hard and painful issue to confront. But it is important to remember that it comes with a major reward.