Pastor Jack's Thoughts for July 21, 2009 FAITH IN DIFFICULT TIMES HEBREWS 11TH CHAPTER The 11th chapter of Hebrews has been called the roll call of faith, and rightly so. This 11th chapter truly traces faith from Creation to the end of time. This week I want to focus on (Hebrews 11:33-40). Why, because it gives both sides of those who lived by faith in the Bible. Some subdued Kingdoms like King David, some saw their dead raised to life, etc. But others were tortured to death and imprisoned. This is true in life. One of the things I have noticed in our Church that makes it strong is that many of you came through hardship, persecution refugee camp and prison for your faith. Praise the Lord for you had faith in difficult times. Many of you are suffering now and are going through difficult times. But you are still faithful to God. Hebrews 12:1-5 follows up the hardship of faith of OT heroes and .tells us that we have something better. We have received the promise. We have Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, so we are encouraged to keep the faith till the end. Paul said at the end of his life, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is a crown of righteousness which the Lord. the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who have longed for His appearing. (2 Tim.4:6-8). We are all called upon to go through the hard times as Paul told Timothy. "But you keep your eye on what you're doing: accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive: do a thorough job as God's servant." (2 Tim.4:5). Msg. Finally let us pray for one another and encourage one another that all of us might fight the good fight of faith through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. James 2:5 "Listen my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love Him... Pastor Jack |
FAITH IN DIFFICULT TIMES
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