A Good Report
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report.”
Hebrews 11:1-2
Eleven years ago, I wrote these words about my oldest son the day before he was to graduate, “Today is the eve of my oldest son’s graduation. Needless to say, I am very proud of him. If you knew the things he has had to overcome to get to this place, you would be as proud of him as I am. Even more, his will to succeed will always be a testament to me of how unwavering faith and right positioning and endurance will always equal success.”
Since the beginning of man’s existence, unwavering faith has always caused those who are obedient to stand out and shine. Not just before man’s eyes, but in the eyes of the Father as well. Actually, Yahweh bragged first. It was by His recognition that we even have the opportunity to know of the great faith Abel, Enoch, Noah and Abraham had. Their willingness to please Yahweh is still being honored thousands of years later.
Hebrews says that it is impossible to please Yahweh without faith. Romans 12 tells us that a measure of faith has been given to every man. Therefore, we all have the ability to please Yahweh. Know this – your obedience may not be read by generations of people, but to have a testimony that says, “I please God,” is all you will ever need.
I’m sure my son didn’t understand the kind of impact his actions would have on me or the many that have read and will read of his great faith, but that’s what faith is. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and evidence of things not seen, even when doubt and fear are present. Faith is not just substance and evidence for the person or persons being read about – it is for those who will read of it 11 years later.
Yes and Amen!