I invite you to put yourself into the rhythm of today’s passage and read it aloud:
By faith, the universe was formed.
By faith, Abel brought an acceptable sacrifice.
By faith, Enoch disappeared to heaven without dying.
By faith, Noah built a boat to save his family.
By faith, Abraham was called to another land.
By faith, Sarah was able to have a child.
By faith, Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice, but God intervened.
By faith, Isaac blessed his own sons.
The list goes on.
As we look at all the biblical stories that are represented in this short passage, we might ask ourselves: Do I have the faith of Abraham to leave my family and follow God to unknown places? Would I have the faith of Noah to build something large and seemingly foolish? Could I be faithful to lead people, like Moses, out of slavery and into the promises of God?
If we only focus on the greatness of those who make up our faith heritage, we may miss the point. Every one of these people was human just like you and me. They had fears, they had faults. Yet, in the face of adversity and confusion, they held onto the truth and confident assurance that what God had promised, he would deliver. They stayed connected to God and relied on him for guidance. The simple (and sometimes dangerous) act of faith meant average people became heroes and role models for then and now.
As you look at this list, don’t be tempted to exclude yourself. You know how to express faith. I know that to be true because you are probably sitting on a chair right now. Look at your faith! You have faith in the object that is underneath you. Why? Because you have learned, over the countless times you have sat in a chair, that it will support you. We can transfer that type of assuredness of faith to God. His word shows us his faithfulness and, in turn, why we, too, can have faith.
None of the biblical heroes of faith declared their faith and then walked completely away from God’s guidance. They were only successful in their callings when they relied on a relationship with God. Is there an area in your life where you have felt or heard God’s calling but tried to handle it all on your own? Invite the Spirit of God back into your call to help you walk it forward.
Are you up for a second challenge? Every time you sit down on a chair today, let it be a reminder to live in faith.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the gift of faith. I receive it today. In places where my faith seems wavering or uncertain, I welcome your Holy Spirit to bring stability, guidance, and peace. Please forgive me if I have ever doubted that you would fulfill your promises to me and those I love. Guide all of us in faith through the work of your Holy Spirit. Amen.