July 26 - By Faith

July 26 - Hebrews 11:1-40 - By Faith

We just read in Hebrews 10:38 that the righteous one will live by faith. What is it? We are told in Hebrews 11:1-3. Being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Faith is necessary for trusting God.

And then we are given examples of incredible faith from creation until the Israelites entered Canaan (Hebrews 11:4-31).

Abel, though dead, still speaks through his actions. Enoch and Noah stood for truth in a world gone astray and God loved them for that. Abraham did many things that showed his strength of faith in a God that would not fail him (Hebrews 11:8-19). Isaac gave blessings to his sons that would impact the world forever. Jacob and Joseph acted in faith as did Moses' parents. Moses made a choice to live differently because of his faith and the Israelites (even though they complained a lot) walked through the Red Sea by faith in their God. Joshua brought down the walls of Jericho by faith and Rahab reached out to the spies in faith.

Men and women acted through faith and in Hebrews 11:33 we are told they conquered kingdoms, administered justice and gained what was promised. Others were tortured, chained and imprisoned, stoned and put to death in hideous ways, they were persecuted and mistreated. (Hebrews 11:35-37). The world was not worthy of them. But, all of these things happened because of their faith in God.

As I look back over my life, I know that I made many choices because of the faith that I have in God.

Yet, even so ... Hebrews 11:39-40 tells us that they did not receive what they had been promised. You see, that time is yet to come. No matter the extent of our faith, until Jesus Christ returns, we will not receive the fulfillment of the promise. But, God has planned something better for them and for us and we will see that day, the Day of the Lord.