What do these people have in common?
They are all listed in the "Hall of Faith," Hebrews 11.
Usually when we read that list, we're reminded of the accounts that we learned as a child in Sunday School.
These men and women had great faith in a great God and acted accordingly. God did great things for them and through them because of their faith.
The application is usually, "If you have more faith, God will use you."
That is true and found in other passages of the Bible as well.
But I think we often overlook the last two verses of Hebrews 11:
"And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect" (v 39-40).
They had great faith in a great God, but they didn't receive the promise. They were looking forward to something else. If you go back and read Hebrews 11, you'll see that anticipation.
They didn't receive the promise - but we did!
What we have in Christ is much greater than the mighty miracles which God performed through these men and women of faith.
Greater than Abraham and Sarah having a son in their old age.
Greater than the crossing of the Red Sea.
Greater than David killing Goliath.
Greater than the strength of Samson.
So why do we live like we are paupers of faith?
God has given us much more than these great heroes ever received.
We have the power of the resurrection, the hope of eternal life, victory over temptation, comfort in times of trial - and Jesus Christ Himself.
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