God’s word says that “faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). In the verses following that one, the acts of several Old Testament saints are highlighted in a kind of faith ‘hall of fame.’ 

Nestled in verse six the writer of Hebrews tells us, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Verse 13 says, “All these people (referring to the faith ‘hall of famers’) were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance.” 

Abel offered a better sacrifice, Enoch pleased God, Noah built an ark. Each hall of famer agreed with God, obeyed God, personally took action and… waited.  Not too easy, right?  Not until we remember to whom we have entrusted our faith. He’s been tried and tested and he paid the ultimate price for us-the death of his son, and our risen Savior, Jesus.  

So no matter where we are in our faith walks, my encouragement is this: let’s please God by agreeing with him, obeying him, taking action on our faith and waiting expectantly for the promises, fully certain we will see them, even from a distance. He is faithful!

Evey Baskin is an executive assistant for Buckner Children and Family Services in Dallas.