Faith, Patience, and the Promises We Inherit

A Reflection on Hebrews 6:12

“Do not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” — Hebrews 6:12

The writer of Hebrews offers a timeless encouragement in a few but profound words. They urge us to remain diligent and steadfast. We should draw inspiration from those who have walked before us in faith. It calls upon us not to grow weary or idle. We should press on with a spirit of perseverance and trust. We understand that God’s promises are true. They are worth every ounce of effort and faith we can muster.

As I reflect on this scripture, I remember seasons in my life. During those times, patience seemed elusive. My faith was tested. One particular memory stands out vividly. It was a time when I faced uncertainty in my career. I felt adrift, waiting for clarity that seemed long in coming. The temptation to take shortcuts, to act out of impatience or fear, was ever-present. I leaned into prayer and Scripture. Through them, I found new strength. I felt a quiet assurance that God’s timing is always perfect. This is true even when it feels delayed from my human perspective.

I often looked to the stories of Abraham and Sarah during that period. They waited decades for God’s promise of a child to be fulfilled. Their journey was not without doubt or missteps. Yet, their story reminds us that faith is not a perfect line. It is a persistent return to trusting God when logic and circumstances seem to fail us. I began to see my own waiting season differently. It was not a punishment. It was an opportunity. It became a space for my faith to deepen and my patience to grow.

Patience, I have learned, is not passive. It requires active trust. It necessitates a daily renewal of hope. Additionally, it demands a commitment to move forward even when the path ahead is unclear. Faith, similarly, is not the absence of questions but the decision to trust in the midst of them. These lessons stay with me. Today, I hold Hebrews 6:12 close to my heart. It is a guiding light that reminds me to emulate the steadfastness of those who have gone before.

Perhaps you, too, are in a season where patience feels like the most challenging virtue to cultivate. If so, take heart: God’s promises are unfailing, and His plans for you are good. Surround yourself with the stories of those who have inherited God’s promises. You can find these stories in Scripture, history, or the lives of those you admire. Let their perseverance inspire your own. And remember, being “not sluggish” means showing up every day with faith. Have faith even in the small things. Trust that in due time, the harvest will come.

May we all find strength through faith and patience to inherit the promises He has set before us.

Key Takeaways:

·      Patience is active, not passive: True patience involves trust and persistence, even in the absence of visible progress.

·      Faith grows in the waiting: Times of uncertainty are opportunities for our faith to deepen.

·      Imitate the faithful: Look to the lives of those who have gone before you for inspiration and encouragement.

How has faith and patience shaped your journey? Share your reflections below—I would love to hear your story.

May your journey be blessed with wisdom and grace.   

Blessings, 

Minister A. Francine Green 

All Scripture references are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) unless otherwise noted.