Telling Of Things To Come

Scripture: Genesis 15:13-14 "Then [God] said to Abram: 'Know certainly that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, and will serve them, and they will afflict them four hundred years. And also the nation whom they serve I will judge; afterward they shall come out with great possessions.'"

Observation: Throughout the OT God displayed shadows of things to come. The temple, the alter, the conquering of Canaan - each of these represents or is a picture of an aspect of the completed structure of God's finished work through Jesus Christ. On the walk to Emmaus Jesus explained to two of His disciples all the things in the Scriptures (OT) that spoke of Him; this was a several hour journey.

This significant event between God and Abram does that as well. Romans 9:6-8 clarifies that those of faith in God through Jesus are Abram's descendants (c.f. Gal 3:28-29). The fact that his descendants would be strangers is emphasized in 2 Corinthians 5:1-8 and Ephesians 2:11-13, 19-20. A believer in Christ, someone truly submitted to the Lordship of Jesus will have afflictions (John 15:18-19). God will eventually judge this world. Believers will be brought out of it with eternal, spiritual riches - a heavenly inheritance (1 Peter 1:5-6; Colossians 1:12; Matthew 6:19-21).

Application: God has provided His word to us that we might believe and after believing we might have assurance and an enduring hope. Believe God's word and rest in it. Be floored daily by the gift of the Scriptures. Be diligent to read, study, meditate on, memorize, and hear God's word in faith on a daily basis. Wait on the Holy Spirit to lead me into all truth as Jesus promised the Spirit would.

"Rest my hope fully on the glory that will be revealed."

Make abiding in Christ my treasure. Desire God as the plant desires the water. Grow toward God as the trees grows to the sun. Dig deep into God's word as the roots spread and drives into the soil.

Prayer: Father, lead me into You. May I know You and Your presence. Give me a pure and holy passion for You. You are the all-sufficient One, the true and only Satisfier.