TESTED FAITH

 Hebrews 11:1

Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.

When we look at this simple definition of faith we may wonder and say, well this is normal, everyone demonstrates faith one way or the other, because surely, people do have hope, of a better life, of endeavours working out, finding love, setting goals and meeting them etc. 

For every invention and exploit done by man had to do with faith, for it involves bringing that which we hope for to pass. 

If you read through the chapter, we see that the hope here goes beyond the earthy stay but to an eternal inheritance:

Hebrews 11:13,16

All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth.

But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

It is this type of faith the Heavenly Father is looking out for, for we remember Christ's words:

Matthew 6:30,33

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

So, is the faith walk a smooth one? NO, for every faith must be tested, and it is when it has passed it's test that it is confirmed. 

Hebrews 11:36-38

Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons.

Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half, and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated.

They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground.

What exactly have you passed through because of your faith? Most times we only look out for the end result but we are not ready for the sacrifice. We do not have to go through all those harsh treatment but definitely there will be time to prove the quality of our faith. 

The Lord strengthens us by His Spirit, thus faith is one of the gifts of the Spirit. We do not need to fear but to put our trust in Him. 

Revive our faith O Lord. 

The people of old are testimonies of faith for us today, we will be testimony for others in times to come. So help us Good Lord. 

He calls us blessed. 

Love

@the watcher