Re: Verse reading–Hebrews 11:1-2, 32-40; 12:1-3, 12-17 (day four)
It always seems to take me by surprise. I begin to read of the acts of righteousness, the miracles of overcoming great odds, and the mighty power of faith demonstrated in the lives of men and women. Then I read verse 35ff…”others were tortured, not accepting their release, so that they might obtain a better resurrection; and others experienced mockings and scourgings, yes, also chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death…” Wait a minute! We were talking about great miracles of deliverance and feats of power. What is this description of defeat and loss? Does faith reside in the pain and suffering of life as well? The circumstances of our life do not determine our faith. Our faith transcends the circumstances of life. Faith comes from God because He has provided something much better for us than temporary victory. We must keep our eyes upon the faithful God!
