Confidence to Stand Under Christ’s Shield
Hebrews 11:1
Hebrews 11:1 is an insightful explanation of faith: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” In this passage, the word “assurance” is a translation of the compound Greek word “stand-under.”
The word “assurance” here is like a strong pillar, describing faith. “Things hoped for” frankly sounds a bit flimsy. In the feast of tabernacles, our practicing Jewish friends are supposed to erect outdoor intentionally flimsy shelters to illustrate at least 2 truths. First, during their wilderness sojourn, they did not have permanent shelters, but temporary dwellings. And second, these bushy booths were to have enough transparency for anyone inside to be able to see the stars which would indicate that they were in a tenuousness place where they had to rely on God, not themselves. Just as God had miraculously provided for them on their wilderness journey, He would surely bring them into the promised land.
Life can seem so secure. Mortgages get paid off, kids get married, retirement can appear secure. But we also know volatility. 9/11 happened one morning, out of the blue. That annual physical can turn out to be a huge life turn, as the shadow of death passes closer by.
But Jesus changes everything. The flesh and blood forever, on earth. Miracles even His detractors could not deny. Prophecies as minuscule as baby donkeys carrying the Blessed King into Jerusalem, and as grand as stars and Magi appearing at the Epiphany, and finally death meeting its match in the Lord of Life. We stand secure on and under the promises of God.
Connected to Christ by faith, we see with eternal eyes, and a merciful mind, directed by a resurrected spirit. Faith is “assurance” and “conviction.” In a flimsy world, it is faith in Christ that is the only firm foundation.
Prayer:Lord Jesus, our faith is based upon Your inspired and true promises.
May we have peace in a flimsy world, trusting that in You we have an indestructible life everlasting. Amen
