Again, someone has defined genuine faith as being “assuring, insuring, and enduring.” Is that what our faith has come to mean to us?
Are we experiencing the endurance of faith? Do we have a faith that provides us with staying power? Do we have a faith that holds us and carries us through even the toughest times?
Jesus is the model for such faith and so the writer of Hebrews wrote. . .
“(1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2) looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (3) Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 ESV)
Jesus endured because He knew it was necessary. Jesus endured because He knew it was worth it. Jesus endured knowing all was in the hands of the Father. Jesus endured to leave us an example that we would “not grow weary or fainthearted” when facing the hardships and trials of life.
Someone has said, “God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.” [source: bulletin one-liners] Not all circumstances and situations are easy. However, the tough times will pass. God is still the great deliverer. We just need to keep the eye of faith fixed on Him.
Consider how Paul complimented and encouraged Christians at Thessalonica where we read. . .
“(3) We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. (4) Therefore we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.” (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 ESV)
This is the genuine faith in which we need to grow! If we focus on the storms, we will find ourselves sinking. But if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, we will be strengthened to walk on with Him!
Have a great day CARRIED ON BY AN ENDURING FAITH!
Carl
