Hebrews 11:32-35a “And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions. Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again …”
Hebrews 11:35b-38 “… and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.”
This is the fourth in an eight-part series originating from our new book: In God I Trust: Making Our National Motto My Personal Declaration:
There is an interesting transition in Hebrews 11 – a chapter commonly known as the Hall of Fame of Faith. Throughout the chapter, God’s people accomplish great things by faith. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Joseph, Moses and his parents, and Rehab all get specific mention for the magnificent and heroic things they were able to do by trusting in God. But it doesn’t stop with them. Starting in verse 32, there are many more who follow in their path. Something interesting happens though in verse 35:
“Women received their dead raised to life again …”
Up to this stage, I am still convinced that I want to be a part of this legacy. The exploits of all the heroes of the faith up to this point are incredible, and the outcomes are encouraging. Yet, in the middle of verse 35, it takes a turn:
“… and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection.”
Yikes! Maybe such a legacy isn’t as glamorous as I expected.
Importantly, this abrupt transition provides a powerful reminder for all of us – faithfully following God may not work out for us temporarily. Yet, pursuing God’s path for us, regardless of the cost, is always a part of His plan.
PLEASE PRAY FOR AMERICAN CHRISTIANS TO TRUST IN GOD EVEN WHEN IT COULD BE COSTLY.
ADMIN: This PLUS post comes from my new book, In God I Trust: Making Our National Motto My Personal Declaration, written alongside Pastor Brad Wells. You can find it on Amazon here:
