August 8, 2014

A LEGACY OF FAITH

Hebrews 11:1–7

Paula Veal
Friday's Devo

August 8, 2014

Friday's Devo

August 8, 2014

Central Truth

God's Word show us that He will use imperfect people to change the course of history if only we come to Him in faith. Follow the example of those who have gone before us, laying aside faith in anything less than God.

Key Verse | Hebrews 11:6

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Hebrews 11:1–7

By Faith

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.

By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

Dive Deeper | Hebrews 11:1–7

Welcome to the Hall of Faith. Hebrews 11 is the "Who's Who" of the Old Testament. These are the men and women whose faith in God shaped not only their actions, but the entire world. When I read about these people, I am in awe of how God used them throughout history. I'm tempted to believe that they are somehow superhuman, ultra holy, and fearless. In reality, they were imperfect people whose faith never wavered. They were ordinary, flawed people, just like you and me. So what makes them so special? It was their faith.

Everyone has faith in something. The dictionary defines faith as "complete trust or confidence in something or someone." It could be faith in one's own abilities, the amount of money in the bank, or even the scientific method. Faith is what guides your actions and decisions. For me, I'm tempted to put faith in my own wisdom or security. While it may work for a little while, I have countless stories how anything or anyone other than God has failed me.

Although the men and women in this Hall of Faith were imperfect, they believed that the God who called them was perfect, all-powerful, and worthy of their faith. They earnestly sought God and were willing to follow where He led them. Noah even built an ark at a time when no one had seen rain! As you read these short biographies, don't think that their faith is beyond your reach. It's the same faith God offers each of us today. The God of the Bible who worked powerfully through these people is still flexing His power through people today.

Follow the example of those who have gone before you. God wants to use you and me. He desires you to come to Him and know Him. Set aside the faith you put in temporary things and seek Him, the eternal creator of the universe, with all your heart and soul.

Discussion Questions

1. What are you tempted to put your faith in other than God? What guides your actions?

2. Do you know any faithful people you would include in your own Hall of Faith? How do they live out their faith in God?

3. How would fully living out your faith in God change the way you make decisions and love others?

4. What legacy of faith are you leaving for those who are coming behind you?

5. Make a list of ways you can "earnestly seek God." Now choose one thing from your list and put it into practice this week.