Tuesday 31 October 2023

Psalm 5:1-8

Background

Hebrews chapter 11 is often referred to as the Hall of Faith by Bible commentators. In the sports or arts world, there are Halls of Fame and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is one of the greatest honours people can receive.

 The Bible teaches us that faith in God is the most precious attribute that humans can possess, of greater worth than gold (1 Peter 1:7). It is the means of salvation (Ephesians 2:8) and the way to please God (Hebrews 11:6). So it comes as no surprise that the writer of Hebrews here lists a series of great characters whose faith is worth considering and imitating.

In the list of people mentioned, the one who receives by far the most attention is Abraham. This too makes sense, since other writers of New Testament letters hold Abraham as the model of faith. Paul in several letters references Abraham’s faith. James too, despite having differences of opinion with Paul over the relationship of faith and works, points his readers to Abraham as the great model of faith (James 2:20-24).

 The writer of Hebrews gives three specific examples of Abraham’s faith, which we are encouraged to imitate:

• Abraham followed God when he was called to move house and live in a foreign land. Choosing where we live is one of the biggest decisions we make and turning this decision over to God is a sign of great faith. Are you prepared to move wherever God calls you to go? And even if you’re 75, as Abraham was?
• Abraham believed (as did Sarah) when God gave him an incredible promise, that at the age of 99 he would have a son, and that son would give him descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. Do you trust God's promises that may sound difficult to believe?
• Abraham was prepared to sacrifice what was most precious to him, the life of his beloved son Isaac, in order to glorify God. Are you prepared to offer to God that which is most beloved and precious to you, trusting that God is the best person to trust with our possessions and relationships?

To Ponder:

• Which biblical characters do you most admire for their faith? 
• Which aspect of Abraham’s faith are you most challenged by?
• Which characters from church history do you most admire for their life of faith (e.g. John Wesley, Martin Luther, Amy Carmichael, William Wilberforce, Mother Teresa)? How can you imitate them? 

Prayer

Lord Jesus, please increase our faith. Help us to trust in you, like those we read about in the Hall of Faith. Give us a faith that can move mountains and help us remain faithful to whatever you call us to. Amen.