“…who by faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the raging of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, gained strength in weakness, became mighty in battle, and put foreign armies to flight.” (Hebrews 11:33-34)
As we finish chapter 11, we are reminded of miracles and great works by men and women of faith. People were rescued, healed, and raised from the dead. Enemies were crushed, armies were routed, and nations were conquered. These heroes had faith in their future Messiah.
For those of us reading these accounts, do we believe that Jesus was born, lived, suffered, died, and rose again for us? Do we have faith enough to tell others about Jesus, proclaim Him in the mission field (your neighborhood or the world), and risk ridicule or isolation for telling others what you believe? Do we have faith, today?
Ultimately, the Old Testament believers, apostles, and all disciples past and present are looking forward to when Jesus comes again. Our Redeemer will come back as Judge to right all wrongs, to wipe away every tear, and to identify who has followed Jesus or rejected Him.
Faith, faith, faith. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow our faith is in Jesus (v. 8; Rev 1:4).
All people, past, present, and future, can be confident through persecution and suffering because of Jesus. If you ever doubt yourself, remember that itʻs your faith in Him that matters most! Jesus was, is, and is to come and our faith in Christ should give us the boldness do the things He asks of us that we might glorify Him with our lives.