Is clarity needed before we say yes to God?
As I meditate on Hebrews 11, it shows those with a truly biblical faith is trusting God, relying on God when looking to the future, and obeying despite not knowing all of the details. The passage described many examples of this perspective, including Abel, Noah, and Abraham. These men obeyed God, though they could not see all of the twists and turns ahead in their futures. Abraham, in particular, did not live to see the complete fulfillment of God's promises. And yet, Abraham, like the rest, was not limited by an earthly perspective. This part of Hebrews specifically tells us that men like Abraham were "looking forward" to something eternal (Hebrews 11:10).
"Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations,
a city designed and built by God." - Hebrews 11:10
“If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out,
they would have had opportunity to return.
But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one.
Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city."
- Hebrews 11: 15-16
These verses make so much sense to me. If men like Abraham were merely looking for some physical territory, they had every opportunity to go back to where they'd started. And yet, they did not. Their reason for waiting faithfully was a trust in God's ultimate plan for them. The faith in God gives us an eternal perspective, rather than a limited physical one. This gives us the confidence to "hold fast" and stand firm despite temporary setbacks or hardships. The model of faith presented by these people, in light of the struggles they faced, ought to inspire us towards a more confident, purposeful faith.
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God has a longing to be revealed and to be known even before they call on His name. He desires to embrace a broken community.
I got to remember that He is a miracle-working God. He specializes in touching lives and changing hearts. He is still moving and is inviting us to partner with Him.
Every time someone says yes to the things of God, they are sowing in His Kingdom.
To forge forward means to commit and to continue, even when the fire and passion are no longer set ablaze as before. I can forge forward every step as He sustains me with His presence. His presence and Him speaking is so paramount in this journey. Because of you, I will commit.
Praying for the homes and making policy decisions with Him each day is sowing into His Kingdom that can rebuild the breach. Each time I choose Yes and Amen to Him is a seed sown.
Lord I ask of boldness like a lion in reaching out to the poor and the marginalized, the forgotten, hidden and lost, to first love and embrace my neighbours and family before You can cast me to the nations.
Long-term missions has been recurring in my mind and in my heart... Yet, I have my fears too, especially when I hear my friends speaking about retirement, savings, investment and getting a house, living the "Singaporean Dream". I know these are things I am willing to forego if He says go. Yet, I still fear sometimes.
Am I putting my security in what is certain and safe? Why am I so afraid of making detour? Will I let Him take the lead even though I am afraid?
If my gift is to serve others, do it with all the strength and energy God supplies (1 Peter 4:1-2) and every yes to God is sowing into His Kingdom. He will be my resource, my cloud and fire, and I just have to say yes to Him. To step into the unknown and trust God.
I know myself... I am honestly not that smart and capable, and I often still struggle with my own weaknesses and sin. But it is not about me, it is all about Him. It is not about me being remembered. They can forget me, forget us, and all the sacrifices made, but remember One Name, One Purpose, and that One Mission. Remember His glory, His love, His name, His promises, His power and His faithfulness.
As I lay aside my weakness and begin to think about what I enjoy doing and how I can focus my time, I realised it is to just be with the youths, empowering them and anchoring them in their identity. I also enjoy soccer and fishing. These have been the starting point to form a connection.
Each time when loving people gets tough, and you wavered in staying committed to His ministry, at times when no one appreciates and you get ridiculed or misunderstood despite loving, stand firm and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believes all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering. Cast all your worries and anxiety to God, for He cares for you (1Peter 5:6-9). Keep on doing what is right and trust your life to the God who created you, for he will never fail you (1 Peter 4:19).
Lord, I don't know what my next ten years would look like. I don't know what you are calling me into. I honestly would still fear to step into the unknown. However, one thing I am sure of is that You love me, and I love you too, and I will follow you for the rest of my life. Let your name be known.
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