I was reading in Hebrews this past week and I noticed some things in chapter 11 where the writer lists the faith giants of the Old Testament. What I noticed was the way that they showed their faith.
Some demonstrated faith through sacrificial living, blessings, worship, and giving instruction.
They functioned without fear, left their home, obeyed.
They passed through raging oceans, marched around an enemy's camp, took in spies, conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and stepped into promises.
They shut the mouths of lions, quenched flames, and escaped the sword.
Their weakness was turned to strength, they became powerful in battle, and they raised the dead.
Their faith moved not just mountains, but it moved them! It was more than just the frame-of-mind kind of faith we seem to be attracted to now. It called for action.
Faith is defined as complete trust or confidence. Can we really have faith without action? Can you say you have faith that a chair will hold you without ever sitting down?
Another thing I noticed is that faith did not always lead to a pretty outcome. In fact, if you read further in Hebrews you will see that the faithful were tortured, flogged, imprisoned and mistreated. They were wanderers, destitute, persecuted and murdered.
Then I started to wonder....is that the kind of faith I have?
Am I willing to take on an active faith that calls me to battles and paths that leave the comfort of what I know now?
Am I willing to function in faith knowing that the path might lead me down paths and have outcomes that are less than pleasant?
Frankly I don't even know where to start with that. I want to...I really do, but I'm afraid. I don't like pain or discomfort. Goodness, I don't even like to cry and these outcomes kinda seem like they would lead to tears!
I don't even know where to start to have an active, all-in faith.
But a little further in Hebrews we are given the key. The key to living out the faith adventure that God has planned for us.
Hebrews 12:1-3 tells me how to step out in faith!!
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame,and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
We focus on Jesus!! If we just keep our eyes focused on the pioneer and perfecter or faith, we will not grow weary and lose heart!!
Oh heavenly Father, help me to step out in my faith. Not just a frame-of-mind kind of faith, but an active faith that brings you honor and glory. Help me keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and not the outcome, knowing that the eternal glory you have waiting for me, far outweighs any temporal discomfort.
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