Children's Ministry Update, May 28, 2023

Faith is a common theme throughout the Bible. We may not find the word faith on every page; however, in nearly every description of what God expects of His people, there is at least an indication of faith. Throughout Scripture, we read that faith is the means by which God is pleased with His people as they chose to trust Him.

Hebrews 11 emphasizes the significance of faith by unpacking how God has been saving His people through faith from the beginning. From creation to the first family and on and on throughout the lives of individuals, tribes, and nations God uses faith as the evidence of who belongs to His kingdom and the means by which He gives hope.

So, what exactly is faith? According to the author of Hebrews, “Faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen” (Heb. 11:1).

To be clear, this does mean that it is possible to have faith in something other than the truths of the Bible, the work of Christ, and the promises of God. We may place our faith in a future spouse, job, experience, or accomplishment; however, according to the Bible, only one object of faith is truly saving before God, and that is Jesus.

What is the object of your faith? Do you have hope in the unseen promises of God? Does the object of your faith look more like a whimsical desire for your own good, or is it confidence in the wonderful work of a life-giving Savior? In the grand picture of life, there is no more important question than this because the object of your faith will most certainly determine the direction of your eternity.

The individuals described in Hebrews 11 put their faith in God’s promise of a coming Christ; therefore, their actions revealed their trust and dependence on the Lord. Ultimately, this produced faithfulness in their lives and blessing from God.

Hundreds of years from now, will your life be associated with this type of faith? Let the faith of Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and others inspire you to take risks in obedience to following Christ. Pray for a faith that actively trusts that God is who He says He is and holds tight to the confidence that God keeps His promises.