I know I have said it A LOT of times. Until now when I have read through the entire bible again, I did not realize how many “favorite” passages I have. But the llth chapter of Hebrews, particularly verse 32-40, is definitely another one of my favorites.
After the long list of “by faith” people in chapter 11 (called the bible’s “faith hall of fame”), the author of Hebrews summarizes by asking the question in verse 32, “what more shall I say?” Then the author goes on to list more names of people of faith. Verses 33-35 describes all the ways these people of faith triumphed in life. Then there is a remarkable change of tone and tenor. The author now says “others were” and then describes incredible trouble and torture, and even death, that some faithful people experienced.
Then comes the amazing conclusion in verse 39-40. “These were ALL commended for their faith.” Those who triumphed as well as those who suffered are examples of faith’s greatest mentors. Many TV preachers today teach that if you have faith then all will go well. You can be healed of every disease and ailment, accomplish any goal you have, and fill your bank account with millions. It is called the “health and wealth gospel.” The bible describes a very different kind of faith. “All of these”–the people who experienced triumphs and the people who experienced tragedies–verse 38 says, the world was not worthy of! Triumph in the world’s terms is NOT the ultimate measure of a person’s faith. Endurance of faith through suffering, even to the point of death (remind you of anyone??!!) is also a sign of a very faithful person. And it is through all these things, triumph and tragedy, that TOGETHER (vs. 40) we are made perfect and receive the promise of God!
If you are experiencing trials, if you are suffering, do not think God has abandoned you. Through our most difficult days God is able to accomplish his purposes in our lives. Our faith can be strengthend and the joy (not happiness) of our lives significantly deepened even through tragedy if we have Jesus in our sights, the “author and finisher of our faith who for the JOY set before him endured the cross (12:2).”