I was reading Hebrews 11 this week, a passage of Scripture known as the Hall of Faith. Several Old Testament men and women of God are listed, saints whose faith was noteworthy.
As I was reading, I was struck by verses 32 through 34. These verses say that these people “subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword and out of weakness were made strong...” Wow! That’s the kind of believer I want to be!
What does it take to be that kind of Christian? Is it exceptional skill or talent? A good upbringing or education? A dynamic personality? Here are some observations I’ve made about some of the Hall of Faithers.
- Many had questionable pasts.
David was an adulterer and a murderer (2 Samuel 11). Rahab was a prostitute (Joshua 6:17).
- They were often afraid.
Gideon was hiding when God called on him (Judges 6:11). Barak wouldn’t go to battle unless Deborah accompanied him (Judges 4:8).
- They were weak and flawed.
Moses had a speech impediment (Exodus 4:10). Samson had a problem with lust (Judges 14, 16). Jacob was dishonest (Genesis 27).
These people were far from perfect! So what enabled them to do all of the things Hebrews 11:32-34 says they did? One thing. Their faith in a perfect, mighty God!
Knowing this brings me such hope! I, too, have things in my past that brought shame. I’m often fearful and overwhelmed with worry. I’m weak and terribly flawed, just ask my husband! I have to remember what 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, His strength is made perfect in weakness.
Do you have some weak places that God can use to show Himself strong? When we surrender ourselves to Him, there’s no limit to what He can do through us!
As I was reading, I was struck by verses 32 through 34. These verses say that these people “subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword and out of weakness were made strong...” Wow! That’s the kind of believer I want to be!
What does it take to be that kind of Christian? Is it exceptional skill or talent? A good upbringing or education? A dynamic personality? Here are some observations I’ve made about some of the Hall of Faithers.
- Many had questionable pasts.
David was an adulterer and a murderer (2 Samuel 11). Rahab was a prostitute (Joshua 6:17).
- They were often afraid.
Gideon was hiding when God called on him (Judges 6:11). Barak wouldn’t go to battle unless Deborah accompanied him (Judges 4:8).
- They were weak and flawed.
Moses had a speech impediment (Exodus 4:10). Samson had a problem with lust (Judges 14, 16). Jacob was dishonest (Genesis 27).
These people were far from perfect! So what enabled them to do all of the things Hebrews 11:32-34 says they did? One thing. Their faith in a perfect, mighty God!
Knowing this brings me such hope! I, too, have things in my past that brought shame. I’m often fearful and overwhelmed with worry. I’m weak and terribly flawed, just ask my husband! I have to remember what 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, His strength is made perfect in weakness.
Do you have some weak places that God can use to show Himself strong? When we surrender ourselves to Him, there’s no limit to what He can do through us!
