“Our faith is in God and the big picture that we won’t completely see this side of eternity. It isn’t easily — or rarely at all — measured by earthly success, but it’s what keeps us aligned with the truth that sings out in our soul.”- Kyle Idleman
“Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.”- Hebrews 11:19 (NIV)
Kyle Idleman concludes Chapter 1 of Don’t Give Up as he states that faith gives you the confidence to keep believing and the courage to keep going. Most noteworthy, this faith centers on God’s character, not in life’s circumstances.
As a result, when God told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, Kyle notes, Abraham’s body acted out his obedience. And Abraham did so despite an almost unbearable temptation to turn back. In fact, as Genesis 22:5 records, Abraham said to his servants: “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.”
Thus, as Abraham obeys God, he believes God will spare Isaac. Because God creates beautiful pictures. He’s worthy of trust.
Consequently, Kyle asks, at what point would you give up all hope? For Abraham, no limit to his hope existed. It was undefined. Pastor Idleman exhorts:
“We have to figure maybe there isn’t a limit, maybe it’s possible to have an all-encompassing hope, because if God is powerful enough to raise the dead, what can’t he do? And if you believe he is perfectly loving, what won’t he do? . . . All-encompassing hope powers a faith that keeps on pushing, never gives up, always believes in God’s intent.”
So, keep believing – and don’t give up!
Today’s question: What keeps you from measuring your faith by earthly success? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “When you find yourself in the deep down dark”
