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

Another way of reading this verse that might help us better understand its impact could go like this…(paraphrased):
Allow faith to act as a substitute where there is a lack of tangible substance. Faith is proof that what you don't yet have is already yours.

It is easy to lose sight of God's promises when they seem to tarry. Discouragement can set in. And then straying from the solid path becomes more and more difficult to resist. But we must ask ourselves a simple question; is God unfaithful to His promises?
We already know the answer is of course not!

By His word the worlds were formed (Hebrews 11:3). He said, Let there be light, and there was light (Genesis 1:3). The God of creation Whose very works are founded on the words spoken from His mouth will not allow His promises to go unfulfilled in our lives either.

His word promises that we will come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 1:7). What an awesome thought; even while we are waiting for our answers to prayer, we are already complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10)!

His Word also promises that we can be confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in us will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).

So are you still waiting? Take heart! He has given you something more real than the air you breathe. He has given you His Word.
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

What has He spoken to you? What promise has He bestowed upon you? The Word says Where there is no vision, the people perish (Proverbs 29:18). Ask the Lord to help you get your eyes focussed on the vision for your life, whatever it may be. And allow your heart to be uplifted now with the gift of faith and hope. He is true to His Word. If God has spoken it, there is no power in Heaven or on earth that can prevent the substance of what you are hoping for. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand (Ephesians 6:13).

April 2004