What is True Faith? It is tough faith

What is True Faith?

Not even giants of faith get exactly what they want

These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised (Heb11:39)

What is faith? And how can you be sure you've got it? Some christian think of faith as an almost magical force: if you muster up enough of it, you"ll get rich, stay healthy, and live a contented life, they say. Yet how does one "muster up" faith? What are signs of true faith?

the author of Hebrews lanches into a detailed description of faith, complete with references ti several dozen biographical models.

"without faith," Hebrews says bluntly, "it is impossible to please God (Heb 11:6)

Not What You'd Expect

But the picture of faith emerging from these chapters contains some surprises. The author uses words and phrases like "persevere", endure," "don't lose heart." In many instances, the heroes cited did not receive the promise they hoped for; some ended up flogged and destitute, hiding out in goatskins (Heb 11-36-38).

Many died horrible deaths.

Faith, concludes the author, most resembles a difficult race. The runner has eyes on the winner has his eyes on the winner's prize, and despite nagging temptations to slacken the pace, he refuses to let up until he crosses the finish line.

"Throw off everything that hinders, "Hebrews coaches (12:9). "Strengthen your feeble arms and week knees"(Heb 12:12)

Is It Worth The Struggle?

Why do people punish their bodies to run a grueling marathon race? Most runners name two reasons: the sense of personal reward they get and the physical benefits of the exercise.

The same two rewards apply in the spiritual realm: prizes await those who perseveres, and the very process of living by faith builds strong character. In this race, no one loses. If you finish, you get the reward.

Here, as the elsewhere, Hebrews holds up Jesus, who endured great suffering for our sakes (Heb 12:2-3), as the ultimate example. The faith described in Hebrews is not sugar- coated; God does the not guarantee a life of luxury and ease.

It is tough faith; a constant commitment to hand on and believe God against all odds, no matter what.