Hebrews 11:1-8 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the WORD of GOD, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto GOD a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, GOD testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because GOD had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased GOD. But without faith it is impossible to please HIM: for he that cometh to GOD must believe that HE is, and that HE is a rewarder of them that diligently seek HIM. By faith Noah, being warned of GOD of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went."
Faith is essential in order to understand and please GOD: "But without faith it is impossible to please HIM" (v.6). The believer who says he wants to understand the LORD's will for his life must be willing to walk by faith, for unless he is convinced that GOD's way is best, he will not naturally nor willingly walk in the way of the LORD. It is important for believers to know the will of GOD, and those who obey the WORD have the promise that they will receive this understanding (Psalm 111:10 pictured at top of post). Notice in our text (as well as in the remainder of this eleventh chapter of Hebrews) that all of these Old Testament saints understood GOD's will because they heard and believed HIS WORD. Not only did they know what the LORD desired of them, but they also stepped out in faith and obeyed what HE said. Understanding the will of GOD goes hand in hand with following HIS WORD, for the LORD grants spiritual understanding to the obedient.
The Bible also says that those who hear and heed reproof will gain understanding (Proverbs 15:32 pictured above). However, admonition is unpopular, and many believers have closed their ears to scriptural rebuke. The psalmist wrote that one result of understanding GOD's WORD is the saint will "hate every false way" (Psalm 119:104 pictured above). Such a position is often criticized by both the world and other Christians as being "unloving," but they have a wrong understanding of genuine love. Regarding the future events of the end times, the LORD told Daniel, "None of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand" (Daniel 12:10). Believers should not be perplexed, confused, or troubled by the many voices crying out to be heard; "the wise shall understand" -- and stand ! MHR
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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