Jesus Christ: Our Better Hope

Last week in Hebrews chapter 10, we learned the importance of encouraging one another to persevere and hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering and with confidence. Near the end of chapter 10, the author of Hebrews quotes Habakkuk, saying, “my righteous one will live by faith.” This week we will be considering what it means to live by faith. Hebrews chapter 11 has been called the “Hall of Faith” and “God’s Hall of Fame.” We read about numerous people from the Old Testament, most of whom we are familiar with, who are commended for living by their faith. But this chapter is about the object of our faith and what we do because of our faith. It shows us what it looks like to trust in God. You’ve probably heard someone say that what is important isn’t so much how much faith you have as it is who or what you’re placing your trust in. The people presented in Hebrews 11 trusted, or hoped, in God, even though they were experiencing all kinds of struggles and trials. I encourage you to read Hebrews chapter 11. Ask God to show you the characteristics and actions that are being commended in these people. You may want to return to the Old Testament to read more about their lives. Ask God to help you assess your faith in Him and in His Word. What might be said about you? By faith . . .