By Faith

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the “Hall of Fame of Faith.” In this chapter, we see a survey of many of the people in scripture who, by God’s grace, were able to do amazing things. However, it is not these people who are the heroes of their various stories, but God Himself. It is in this chapter that we see a summary report of the faithfulness of God to those who put their trust in Him.

This chapter begins by defining faith. We are told, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 12:1, ESV). One of the key words in this verse is, “conviction.” If you do not have the conviction that God is going to see you through, that He will provide, that He is guiding your steps – then you will never accomplish anything of significance for the Kingdom.

As we read Hebrews 11, we will see a re-occurrence of the phrase, “by faith.” This phrase in not used once, twice, or even a dozen times. This phrase is used twenty-two times as we are reminded of the great works of the men and women of the past. It is, “by faith,” they were able to accomplish the works that they did. Or, you might say, it was through a strong conviction of things not seen that they were able to accomplish what they did.

How is your faith? Put your name in this sentence and fill in the blank: It was by faith that Darrell __________________________________________. What might we do if we will simply operate “by faith.”

Remember the startling warning of Hebrews 11:6, “And without faith it is impossible to please him…” (ESV).