Be Like Abraham, not Like Mike

I'm reading in Heb 6.15, this morning where the writer to Hebrews sets up Abraham as an example of patient endurance. "After he had patiently endured," comments the author, "he obtained the promise" (speaking of Isaac, the promised heir).

The word that the KJV translates "patiently endured," is a word that BDAG says means: "to remain tranquil while waiting." After Abraham's failed machinations to bring about God's promise from his own plan, he "patiently endured" the wait for the promised heir.

The author of Hebrews points out Abraham's example because he wants to teach us a lesson. "Be like Abraham," he says. "As he patiently waited for the fulfillment of God's promise, you also wait for the fulfillment of God's promise that you will enter his rest." Indeed some of the most soaring and inspiring words that the author pens are in this section. God swore by an oath in order that "we might have strong consolation who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us" (vs. 18, KJV). "Which hope we have as an anchor for the soul, both sure and steadfast" (vs. 19, KJV).

O Christian, be like Abraham!