God promised many things to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Some of these promises, like Canaan and Jesus coming to earth, were only fulfilled after they had died. But they believed that it would happen one day.

¹³Each one of these people of faith died not yet having in hand what was promised, but still believing. How did they do it? They saw it way off in the distance, waved their greeting, and accepted the fact that they were transients in this world.

As if they could see the future. They looked at the future through a lens. A lens of faith. And when you look through the lens of faith, it helps you see a bit around the corner.

Although they weren’t present when Jesus walked on earth, they looked through this lens of faith and knew that the Saviour would one day walk the dusty roads on earth. They believed it so strongly as if it had happened already.

The lens of faith is developed by the past. These men had experienced God in the past. They got to know Him as a God who calls you to do things, but who contributes. He is a God who fulfils His promises one by one; He does what He says He will do.

So, when you experienced God in the past and He says He will do more things in the future, you can trust Him. He does what He promises. Why would He change plans midway?

We must also allow the past, God’s walk with us, God’s with others, and God’s walk through His Word, to shape our lens of faith. Look at the story of Abraham. How God blessed him! See how He provided the ram for the sacrifice, so that Abraham did not have to sacrifice Isaac. See how many his descendants were.

God made many promises to Abraham and fulfilled all of them. God promised that Jesus would come. And Jesus came and died on the cross for the punishment that each of us received for all our sin. Look back at your life and see the floods of mercy God gave you.

Let all these happenings from the past shape your lens through which you look at the future. Then you will know that God will not change His plan halfway through.

A matric girl wrote the following poem:

Why would we fear in our own country,
receiving so many promises from God’s hand?
Our country, you are perfectly ready
with a supernatural, Godly mandate!

We believe, our faith positive,
our God unrestricted by borders.
There is no stopping Him if He wants to work here,
His blood proclaiming across the heavens!

He is our Counsellor wherever we go,
we wait on Him – His timing, always good.
Speak life every day, wherever you go!
Do not focus on storms and attacks.

No! We are light bearers; our vision, the future.
We transcend hate, carrying no weapons.
We live words of life, words of hope,
finding courage and power in our steadfast faith!

Faith pleases God!
Stand strong – with Him we can do it!

Let’s look through the lens of faith and live it.

Scripture
Hebrews 11:13-16

Reflection
What do your glasses look like?
How do you see God, looking from the past?
How can this help you strengthen your lenses?

Prayer
Father, You have made so many promises come true in the lives of other people. In mine too. I need one made true now. Amen.