May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.
Romans 15:5 NIV
Series: The Breadcrumb Trail
Have you ever felt closer to God as you listen to a special song? Music has always played an impactful role in my life. In my younger days, I used to sing “specials” in church. One of my favorites was the song “Find Us Faithful” by Steve Green. Based on Hebrews 12:1-2, this part of the song resonates with me more each year:
We’re pilgrims on the journey of the narrow road,
And those who’ve gone before us line the way.
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary,
Their lives a stirring testament to God’s sustaining grace.
Singing this song, I always think of those who have helped me understand who I am in Christ. So many believers have gone before me, touching my life, each bearing witness to a life of faith.
Sister Millie, my first Sunday School teacher, taught me “Jesus Loves Me,” “Deep and Wide,” and “Climb, Climb Up Sunshine Mountain.” Sister Young encouraged me to read passages in the Bible beyond Adam and Eve, Noah’s Ark, and Daniel in the Lion’s Den. When I was a teen, I became passionate to learn more about the Temple of God after our Pastor taught an in-depth series on it. Sister Ruth gave memorable, heart touching testimonies about God coming faithfully to her family’s rescue during times of need.
As I mature in my faith-walk, I look to God’s Word and see those within its pages whose lives are cheering me on and encouraging me when I need it most.
Esther, who looked beyond herself and showed great courage in her stand for her people. Gideon, who came out of hiding to lead God’s army to victory in the face of insurmountable odds. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, standing for what they believed, even in the face of death. Paul and Silas, who fearlessly sang praises in the depths of prison. The woman who moved through the crowd to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment for her healing.
When I look at the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11, I see breadcrumbs God has placed for me. Ordinary men and women who were not perfect but who chose God above all. Their lives lead me to a closer walk with Him. All of these men and women encourage me to live the way they lived.
The chorus of Find Us Faithful says:
O may all who come behind us find us faithful,
May the fire of our devotion light their way.
May the footprints that we leave, lead them to believe,
And the lives we live inspire them to obey.
God has called every one of His children,”to consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). It’s now our turn to be “the great cloud of witnesses” spoken of in Hebrews 12:1. There are times we are on the road needing the cheers of the faithful, and He has ultimately called us to be the cheerleaders and encouragers for others.
While we have the opportunity, it is so important we look inside ourselves, see where we’re placed, and utilize the gifts God has given us to impact His Kingdom. Are we consciously listening to His voice? Are we anticipating our next assignments from Him? Are we eagerly going out to tell those who do not know Him that there is hope and a Way? Are we standing with those who are struggling, providing support based on His Word? Are we rejoicing with those who rejoice and crying with those who are grieving? Are we cheering on the faithful? Are we encouraging the weary?
Where are you on that narrow road? I hope when I am gone there will be someone, somewhere, who will say I did or said something through His power to bring glory to the Father that caused them to seek a closer walk with Him. I want to be a breadcrumb.
Holding Fast to Hope,
Debby
Scripture References: Esther 1-10; Judges 6-8; Daniel 3; Acts 16:25-26; Luke 8:43-48; Hebrews 10:24, 12:1-2
