Receive the ability to do the impossible

Hebrews 11:11-12 By faith even Sarah herself received ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she considered Him faithful who had promised. Therefore there was born even of one man, and him as good as dead at that, as many descendants as the stars of heaven in number, and innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore. We are encouraged by these Scriptures today through Sarah that we too may receive the ability to do the impossible. Having received faith, Sarah also received the ability to conceive. When Sarah heard about God’s promise of having a natural-born son, she may have laughed at first, but eventually she believed and obeyed. She did what it took for conception to occur, and God gave them a son. Let’s remember that faith is revealed in those who are in Christ when God speaks. For those who are not in Christ, when they hear the word of God, they are unmoved and disobedient. Heb. 4:2 described such an occasion with faithless Israel. “For indeed we have had good news preached to us, just as they also; but the word they heard did not profit them, because it was not united by faith in those who heard.” We can conclude from this verse and previous verses that God also testified to Sarah that He was pleased with her and would do what He promised by giving her faith. That was enough assurance from God for Sarah to obey and receive the promise. God has commanded us to do many things we don’t have the ability to do naturally. For instance, love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34). Or husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25). Or wives, be subject to your own husbands as to the Lord (Eph. 5:22). Do you realize that you can receive the ability to love from the indwelling presence of Christ by faith? How does that work? If you believe that Jesus Christ is your high priest and that He has given you immediate and continuous access to the throne of grace, then you draw near to God’s throne through Jesus for the ability you need to obey and love. That was the point the author had been making since the end of chapter 4. “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” How’s your faith? Is it the same kind as Sarah’s? The kind of faith that, in the face of the impossible, considers God faithful to keep His promise to give you the help or grace you need. If so, then walk in obedience. Let us draw near, hold fast our confidence, receive what He gives us, and give Him glory. What an encouraging word for us today from Sarah’s faith.