APR 12

Hebrews 11:1-2
Memorise Hebrews 11:6
“… and be not conformed to this world…”

Hebrews 11 begins with a description of what “faith” is – it is the “substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”. This means that it makes the fulfilment of future promises a reality to us, and we treat them as something real and substantial. It is what convinces us, just as evidence convinces people, so that we act on the promises even now when we cannot yet see them.

The rest of Hebrews 11 is commonly known as the “Hall of Faith”, as the writer cites many examples of believers who were given a promise by God, and who then went on to live their lives in light of that promise, trusting that God would fulfil all of them. In Hebrews 11:33-37, we see that this faith enabled them to do amazing things for God, and to endure terrible trials without capitulating and compromising. They lived by faith! Thus, we see that faith is the underlying fruit of the Spirit that shows very clearly to the world that we believe in a God who is real.

God has left a host of promises in His Word for us which cover every possible need that we may have in this life, and into eternity. It falls upon us to decide whether or not we will believe what God has said. This is the inward, subjective faith that we must exercise. Once we exercise it, others will be able to see it in the way that we conduct ourselves, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Are we easily afraid? Do we fall into temptation without much of a fight? Do we find it a chore to serve God? Do we doubt that God can help us in certain situations? All of these issues stem from a lack of faith. God’s Word supplies comfort and consolation for every situation; it warns us about the penalties of sin; it tells us about the blessings and joy that come with service; it testifies of His power and willingness to use that power for our good. In every situation, faith is the key to helping us live a life that is pleasing to God, just as it was the key to helping all the saints in Hebrews 11 leave behind a good report for us to follow.

Thought: Am I leaving behind a good report by exercising faith in God’s Word?
Prayer: Lord, increase my faith!