And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. Hebrews 11:39-40
I continue my study of Hebrews, and this morning my focus is Hebrews 11:20-40, and my unaided observations of the text. Here, building on text throughout chapter 11, v20-40 continues the "hall of faith" by providing readers with examples of the faithful, who, while they did not see fully see the promises made by God, nonetheless trusted God and endure and persevered in their faith - many despite deadly persecution. These include Issac (v20), Jacob (v21), Joseph (v22), Moses (v23-28), the faithful Israelites who crossed the dry Red Sea (v29), the faithful who marched around the walls of Jericho (v30), Rahab (v31), Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, and Samuel (v32). Many other unnamed (but not insignificant) "who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight" (v33-34). V35-38 shares how some were tortured, mocked, flogged, imprisoned, stoned, sawn in two, destitute, afflicted, mistreated - not worthy of this world, etc. The application for all of us is that we should follow in the footsteps of these faithful and be prepared for whatever the world throws at us as Jesus tells us that we should take heart as Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33).
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is with me always - never leaving or forsaking me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You love me. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
