Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. (Hebrews 4:1-2)
Let us fear? It’s an interesting beginning to this chapter of faith, isn’t it? This call to fear isn't a trembling dread, but a profound respect for the promises of God. It's a recognition that the rest He offers is beyond our comprehension and often beyond our immediate vision.
The writer of Hebrews reminded us again of the story of the Israelites who were freed from Egypt but were not able to enter into everything God had for them. When God’s people were finally face to face with the land of Canna —God’s promised land—they did not walk into it. They knew what God said, but they didn’t mix their faith with God’s Word.
God has a promised land for you as well. His promised land isn't merely about a cessation of labor but a land flowing with milk and honey—a place of God’s provisions where believers step into their God-ordained inheritance.
You will never walk in the fullness of God’s provision or the fullness of your calling without adding faith to the mix. What does that look like?
First, you must hear the Word. Get yourself under good teaching and listen. Second, you need to receive the Word. Third, you must believe that what God’s Word says is going to happen, and that it is entirely true. Fourth, you must speak the Word out loud and refuse to speak any negativity or unbelief. Then last, but certainly not least, you must act on the Word that you spoke; do something in faith to see it come to pass.
Don’t expect God’s promised rest to happen if you don’t add faith to the mix.
Practical Application
What are you believing God for? Is there an element of acting in faith that you have neglected in your believing? Look again at the five elements of faith and see if there is any area you need to step up to see God’s will come to pass in your life.