欧博娱乐Hebrews 11:16 Devotional: A Better Country: Lo
A Better Country: Longing for Our Heavenly Home"But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city." - Hebrews 11:16
The Book of Hebrews presents a remarkable exploration of faith, hope, and enduring legacy. Among the many passages of encouragement and exhortation found in this epistle, Hebrews 11:16 stands as a profound declaration of the faith that drives believers toward a heavenly aspiration: "But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city."
This verse is nestled within the hall of faith, which recounts the stories of individuals who lived and died believing in the promises of God. They journeyed through life firmly rooted in the hope of a reality beyond this world. As we unpack the meaning of this scripture, we discover how it speaks to the deepest longings of our souls and our ultimate destination as followers of Christ.
**Longing for Something Better**
In our earthly existence, we often find ourselves yearning for more. Whether it be a deeper sense of purpose, a more profound relationship, or simply a life free from struggles, the pursuit of something better is an inherent part of our human experience. The heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews were no different; they, too, desired a better country.
The phrase "better country" indicates a poignant discontent with the present world—a world marked by imperfections and unfulfilled desires. The patriarchs of old, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, understood that their true home was not in the land of Canaan or in their earthly journeys. They were looking forward to a heavenly city, a place crafted by God's own hands, where suffering and sorrow cease to exist.
We must ask ourselves: what do we desire in our lives? Is our focus too often on acquiring worldly possessions, achievements, or temporary pleasures? Are we investing our time and energy in pursuits that lead us further away from the reality of our heavenly home? To desire a better country is to set our sights on the things above, to live with an eternal perspective, and to recognize that we were created for far more than what this world can offer.
**God Is Not Ashamed**
The latter part of the verse carries significant weight: “wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God.” For God to identify Himself with us is both profound and humbling. He is saying that He proudly acknowledges those who seek Him with sincere hearts and unwavering faith. He takes delight in calling us His own when we pursue that "better country" with tenacity and faithfulness.
What does it mean for God to not be ashamed? It implies a deep relationship, built on trust and recognition of His ways. When we live in accordance with His teachings and align our lives with His will, we enter into a partnership of faith. This authentic relationship draws us closer to Him, and He boldly declares His love and commitment to us in return.
**Preparing a City for Us**
The promise that comes from God is astounding: “for he hath prepared for them a city.” This city symbolizes a perfect dwelling place, a home where God’s presence is fully manifested without the veils of sin and strife that hinder our communion with Him today. Imagine a place free from fear, pain, uncertainty, and loss—a home that fulfills every longing of our hearts.
In modernity, where uncertainty reigns supreme and the noise of life can drown out the still voice of God, we hold onto the promise of this prepared city. It serves as a beacon of hope in times of trouble, an assurance that amidst earthly turmoil, there awaits a divine kingdom that transcends all we know.
As we reflect upon Hebrews 11:16, may we rekindle our yearning for that better country and allow it to transform our everyday lives. Let our aspirations align with God's intentions for us, living each day as a testament to our faith in the promises of God, celebrating that one day, our longing will be fulfilled in His glorious presence.
Hebrews 11:16 Artwork
Hebrews 11:16
Hebrews 11:16
Hebrews 11:16 - "But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city."
Hebrews 11 the faith hall of fame
Hebrews 11 the faith hall of fame
Hebrews 11 the faith hall of fame
Zechariah 1:1-6
Hebrews 11:2 - "For by it the elders obtained a good report."
Hebrews 11:1 a picture of a person learning to walk by faith
Hebrews 11:1 a picture of a person learning to walk by faith
Hebrews 11:1 a picture of a person learning to walk by faith
Revelation 16:16 - "And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon."
Hebrews 11:14 - "For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country."
Hebrews 9:16 - "For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator."
Hebrews 13:16 - "But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased."
Hebrews 11:18 - "Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:"
Hebrews 7:16 - "Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life."
Hebrews 11:20 - "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come."
Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Leviticus 18:16 - "Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy brother's wife: it is thy brother's nakedness."
Hebrews 6:16 - "For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife."
Hebrews 11:1 The great cloud of witnesses teaching others how to live by faith
Hebrews 11:1 The great cloud of witnesses teaching others how to live by faith
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." - Hebrews 11:1
Hebrews 11:1 The great cloud of witnesses teaching others how to live by faith
Hebrews 11:38 - "(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."
Hebrews 11:39 - "And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:"
Hebrews 3:11 - "So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)"
Genesis 16:11
