FAITH ALLOWS US TO PLEASE GOD

Hebrews 11:1-6 / Keywords 11:6

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

 

11:1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. 4 By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead. 5 By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

  

1. As Jesus gave up his life and freed us from being bound by the law (Ro 7:6), we have a new relationship with God. Faith is confidence in our hope, such as growing in Jesus' image and living eternally in God's presence in heaven. Faith also allows us to see what we do not see, such as the love of the Father and forgiveness of sins (1). By faith, we come to God and live according to his will.

 

2. Abel brought a better offering than Cain before God (4). Even though not much is known about his life, God's acceptance of his offering is evidence of his relationship with God and teaches us the importance of a right attitude as we come to God.

 

3. Enoch walked with God, in contrast to the people of his generation, and his life attitude pleased God (5). God is pleased when we seek him, believing that God exists and controls all things. What takes your attention away from God? The worries of the world or the pain in your life? Are you distracted by the comfort and pleasure the world can give? Remember, God created you with a good purpose. Come to Him by faith and enjoy the blessed fellowship with him.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for allowing me to come to you by faith. Thank you for the hope and assurance we receive through Jesus' sacrifice. Help me to live by faith, overcoming the worldly pressure so I may please you.

One Word By faith, live to please God