He considered the fact that God is able even to raise someone from the dead - and figuratively speaking, he did receive him back. By faith Isaac invoked blessings for the future on Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, "bowing in worship over the top of his staff." By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his burial.

By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months after his birth, because they saw that the child was beautiful; and they were not afraid of the king's edict. By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called a son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing rather to share ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

Hebrews 10:19-25

The Church is a much more important place than just a place to socialize. Church is a place where we should be able to lift up, build up, and brighten up our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Christian fellowship takes place when we offer encouragement to our friends, pray for them, and confess our sins and weaknesses to one another. These are the elements that make fellowship genuine.

What about your own church? Are you merely socializing? Or are you practicing true Christian fellowship?

Christian fellowship builds us up and binds us together.

Our Daily Bread - November 14, 2004