Devotional: Moving Forward Hebrews 11:39-40

“All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth” (Heb. 11:13, NASB).

As we celebrate Black history Month we are reminded that the descendants of African slaves in America has made much progress in our quest for equal opportunities and justice. The old saying often heard in African American churches today is true, and it will remain true until Jesus returns to set up His government in the New Jerusalem. “We’ve come a long way; we’ve still a long way to go.”

These words capture the ideal expressed by the writer of Hebrews 11. The writer wants their audience to hold firm to their faith. He invites them to remember the faith of those that have gone on before them. Since the beginning of human history people of faith have accomplished great things. However, these great warriors only ran only their portion of the relay race assigned to them. After they finish their leg of the race it is the duty of the next generation to receive the baton and run their leg of the race.

The writer of Hebrews wants the audience to know that their personal death is not the end of the race. God has someone who is ready to receive the baton. In order to be qualified to run in the race one must have faith. We must not get distracted. We must run the race with endurance with our eyes fixed on Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith (Heb. 12:1-2).

Prayer: Lord, we thank you for our journey. We believe Your promise that there is a home in Your kingdom promised to those that believe. Amen.