Hebrews 11-8.18.22

Scripture 

Hebrews 11

Observation

Hebrews 11 has a nickname:

The  hall of faith.

In sports, it’s the best athletes that make it into the hall of fame. 

Hebrews 11 covers the stories of some of the best heroes of faith of the Old Testament. If you’re looking to answer the question, “What is faith?” these stories are a great place to start. You’ll get to see faith in action.

Understanding 

Living a life of faith is tough. It requires the power and presence of God in your life. No matter how much faith or faithless you’re currently feeling, be assured that faith comes not from those who try hard, but those who lean into God hard.

Hebrews 11 tells us what it means to have faith and obtain life. Those with true faith trust God’s word. Focusing on assurance about what we do not see, looking beyond the situation as it can be perceived by natural vision. By exercising this kind of faith those in the Old Testament gained the recognition of God. By faith they discerned God’s amazing plan.

The faith hall of famers had plenty of mess-ups in their stories, but their faith remained constant still. 

Faith requires living life as if every promise of God is true, whether we see the evidence of that or not. Faith doesn’t need to see to believe.

A life of faith starts in the heart, but always shows itself through works. In the same way, a lack of faith shows in our actions as well. 

Faith is responsive: 

We must take action. By faith Abraham, when called he obeyed.

Faith is sacrificial and courageous: Abraham brought his son whom he loved and was willing to place him on the altar. He called it worship. He trusted God even when it meant laying down something he loved.

Faith is persistent: 

Abraham and his sons lived in tents. They did not see the land as their own, but exercised faith knowing that God would be true to his word. Abraham looked forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

All these people were living by faith when they died. Although they did not actually possess the promised gifts of God, they saw them and welcomed them. Their hearts were set on heaven, not on the country they had left. Heaven was their homeland, they were citizens of heaven. God is not ashamed to be called their God and he has prepared for them a city.

Life Application

Faith is a basic requirement of life that keeps your hope alive and from being shaken when faced with trials. The stronger your hope, the stronger your faith in God. This is why it is important to read God’s word, spend time in prayer and worship. The more you know God, the more you can trust His character and stand on His word. 

God I want to trust you even when I don’t see or understand. Help me to take action and stand on your promises.

-Justin Eaves