Notes on Hope Devotional

Even Though

Hebrews 11:8, 11 (CSB)
By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and set out for a place that he was going to receive as an inheritance. He went out, even though he did not know where he was going.
(v.11) By faith even Sarah herself, when she was unable to have children, received power to conceive offspring, even though she was past the age, since she considered that the one who had promised was faithful.

Hebrews 11 is known as the Great Hall of Faith, where the Old Testament heroes are recognized. Abraham and Sarah are described in two verses. In verse 8, Abraham is described for his faith when he “obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” In verse 11, Sarah, “even though she was past age, considered the One who had promised was faithful.” 

In both cases, “even though” is the declaration of being all-too-human in a relationship with our Holy Heavenly Father. Abraham did not get a road map for where he was going. He had no clue. He had to trust God and believe what God told him.

When considering the possibility of being the father of a great nation, Abraham went with what God told him, not on his circumstances. The date of expiration for becoming parents was over for Abraham and Sarah. They looked beyond their limitations and believed what God had promised. What looked impossible and hopeless became a reality by faith.

How often do we set limits on God? The list of “even though” sentiments goes like this; “even though I am single,” “even though I’m over 50,” “even though I don’t have a degree,” “even though I’ve never done that before,” “even though my past is filled with loss and pain,” “even though my family is a mess,” “even though I’m not qualified,” “even though I don’t feel called,” and on and on and on. We unconsciously disqualify ourselves before we even give God a chance to remind us of what He can do with our list of “even thoughs.”

What if we just stop and drop our bag of “even thoughs” and consider the “because” in Hebrews 11:11? Because we can believe God and what He says to be true. God does love us. God does care about us. God does delight in us. God does think we are worthy. God does forgive us. God does know our deepest hurts and pain. God does call us His own. God does totally accept us. God can use us despite our limits because of His unlimited power in us.

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the promises You give us to trust You. Help us believe beyond our “even thoughs” trusting You completely.
In Jesus Name, Amen.