May 15: STRIKING EVIDENCE

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Abram, raised in a family whose ancestral line had possessed and passed down a knowledge of God, faced a series of tests, each amounting to no small sacrifice. The plainland of the Chaldeans was an abundantly fruitful place, well-supplied with produce and livestock. The Euphrates River proved a dependable, controlled source of irrigation. The city of Ur was highly advanced and urban with well-developed arts and trade. Abram surely had strong ties to home and family, as well as his city and country. But upon hearing the call of God, he obeyed without hesitation and without questioning—“one of the most striking evidences of faith to be found in all of the Bible.” Patriarchs and Prophets by EGW (p.126)

By comparison, the land of Canaan was occupied by various nomadic groups with small, separate city-states. Its economy revolved around agriculture and pastoralism over rugged hills and valleys with unpredictable rain. This was the land of promise…

By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Hebrews 11:9-10

Abraham looked forward—with a substantial faith—to the capital city of the Universe. Followers of Christ, by faith, also have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels. For [in this fallen world] we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. (12:22, 13:14) By the teachings of His word and the events of His providence, God speaks to His people every day. He may call us to abandon a job that promises worldly honor, to step away from profitable associations, or even to separate from congenial friends and family. Such a call looks like a road of hardship, sacrifice, and self-denial. If the Lord is calling you onto such a ‘landscape,’ it may be for the development of traits essential for spiritual accomplishments far more substantial than anything the world has to offer. Although Abraham has yet to receive the promise (11:39), his testimony of faith is a testimony without regrets. The lessons of Abraham are recorded for the benefit of all who may be called to endure affliction, abandon a cherished plan, or take a step of faith. When God lights a path for our feet, He promises to walk with us.

The LORD will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Isaiah 58:11