February 28
A happy ending?
Still others had trial… Hebrews 11:36 (NKJV)
In rounding out our examination of faith, an interesting detail emerges in the closing verses of Hebrews Chapter 11.
For the greater portion of the chapter, we're introduced to the valiant, the victorious, and the vindicated figures of faith. We read about Noah building the ark and saving humanity, about Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David, and Daniel. These are all what we would consider "glory stories." They have the happy ending we all want to associate with faith.
Then the chapter takes a turn in verse 36. It switches its attention to those who "had trial." That's a polite biblical way of saying that their stories didn't have a happy ending. There's torture, there's enslavement, there's imprisonment, there's banishment, there's even execution in the cruelest of forms. These aren't the biblical bedtime stories we want to hear or share.
Yet they're included here, and the reason is to show us that faith isn't just something that enables us to overcome in this life, but it's also something that enables us to endure this life…no matter how painful or difficult it may be. Notice the spiritual seal of approval placed on their lives:
And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith… (Hebrews 11:39 NKJV)
There are those who would suggest that if you have enough faith you'll have an easy life. Not according to God's Word. Sometimes it's God's purpose for His people to suffer, and when it is, we need to remember that it's not because we've fallen short in the faith department. In fact, it's under adverse conditions that our faith actually shines brightest.
You have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory… (1 Peter 1:6-7 NKJV)
Remember this as you encounter the inevitable trials of life.
Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today?
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