Faith sees the future through a different lens!

Heb 11:20

By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.

Heb 11:21

By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.

Heb 11:22

By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.

As we explore the scriptures above, we see that faith empowers us to view the future through a lens of hope and assurance, a stark contrast to those who navigate life without faith. In each of these remarkable examples, the individuals involved were looking forward to the fulfillment of divine promises, fully aware that they may not witness these promises come to fruition in their own lifetimes.

Isaac exemplified this unwavering faith as he rested in the promises shared by God. These promises included the reaffirmation of the covenant made with his father, Abraham—assuring him of land, multitudes of descendants, and blessings for all nations through his lineage. God also promised Isaac His constant presence and protection. Embracing these blessings, Isaac passed them along to his sons, blessing them just as Abraham had blessed him. He envisioned a bright future for his children, secure in the knowledge that God’s plans would prevail, even if he would not be around to see their reality. Isaac's confidence in the Lord was steadfast, knowing his children were held in God's loving hands.

Jacob, too, continued this legacy of faith as he blessed the sons of Joseph—his estranged son, who had been sold into slavery by Jacob’s other sons out of jealousy. Joseph rose to become second only to Pharaoh in Egypt, ultimately reuniting with his family, bringing immense joy to Jacob's heart. Recognizing that God’s plan for the future was still unfolding, Jacob bestowed his blessings, reinforcing the powerful notion that faith perceives the future differently.

Through his faith, Joseph understood that God had placed him in a pivotal position to save Jacob’s family from the devastating famine. He realized that God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was actively progressing towards a glorious future. With profound foresight, Joseph declared, "Be sure to take my bones with you and bury me in the land flowing with milk and honey," anticipating the day when God's people would inherit the land He had promised them.

May we cultivate a simple, child-like faith in the promises our God has made to us about our future. Let us embrace the future with confidence and hope, knowing that, like Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, we are part of a grand narrative written by a loving Creator. Amen!