Faith and faithfulness are central concerns of the Bible. In one sense, Hebrews 11:1 attempts a definition of faith. Yet, the definition is not like what we find a dictionary. Rather, one describes faith when one describes a life lived in relationship with God, regardless of circumstances, sustained by the hope God has given. Those who live by faith do so because they must endure trials and struggles in this life that may make them doubt the hope God has placed in them. Those who live by faith live by the promise. They refuse to allow circumstances to make them shrink back from the journey toward the destination God has promised. Faith is the reality of that for which one hopes. In faith, the things for which we hope become reality. Faith gives substance to our hopes. Faith makes us certain of realities we do not yet see. Faith is what gives the believer the conviction that the future will be as God has promised. Indeed, it is faith in God's promises that enables the faithful even to envision that unrealized time we call "the future." Faith relies on the trust we may have in God's promises. The ultimate hope that kept these faithful ones listed in Hebrews 11 going is the dream of a "better country ... a heavenly one." That ultimate hope was already a reality. God has already "prepared a city for them."
As those who suffer, as those who find their hope challenged, we need assurance that this life is only temporary and something better remains. Faith allows us to endure and to look forward to the hopeful promise. Such is the power of faith that sustains people when hope dims and circumstances are the worst.
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