The Enduring Faith, Part 4 – Hebrews 11:13-14

All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own.  Heb 11:13-14

The testimony of the patriarchs who died in faith shows us the three essential components of enduring faith- notitia, assensus, and fiducia. In the previous weeks we expanded on notitia and assensus– the content of faith, and the conviction- or believing- that the content is true. However, faith does not stop at mere knowledge and belief in its truthfulness. The third element- fiducia– is the personal trust, reliance, and love for Jesus Christ that is manifested by those who have saving faith. The patriarchs, having seen and having believed in God’s promises, welcomed what they saw and also confessed who they were in light of God’s promise, resulting in their total commitment and obedience to God.

Enduring faith abides, always expressing itself with good works. It is the Holy Spirit who enables us to walk with the Lord in trust and obedience. However, there are things that can hinder us from walking by faith. Fearing something or someone other than God will make you shrink back from glorifying Him in all circumstances. Christian, do not fear what you can lose. Those who fear the Lord know He is with them, and put their hope in the Lord alone. (Matt 10:28) Prayerlessness is another great hindrance to walking by faith. Jesus showed us how important it is to pray. He prayed unceasingly during His earthly ministry, and He taught us how to pray to the Father. When we pray in the Spirit, our thinking and hearts are changed to do the will of God by faith.

As you live by faith in obedience to God’s Word, you are confessing with the patriarchs that you are exiles on the earth. Christians are missionaries, doing the work of God and passing through en route to their heavenly home. Those who truly live by this confession aim to live on earth simply, with thoughtfulness and faith. They live for the Lord and for His glory, while removing every kind of sin and distraction from their lives. They live in the world, but they do not love the world. What is the world? Whatever pulls you away from Christ is the world. We must constantly examine ourselves and guard our hearts. If you are living in the pursuit of money, success, or man’s approval, you are loving the world. (1Jn 2:16)

Those who live by faith strive to enter through the narrow gate. They turn away from the world by faith, and they follow God by seeking and obeying His Word. We must always remind ourselves and one another of who we are- we are children of a God. As pilgrims in this world, we have a glorious gospel to share with the lost. By faith, we will endure and live out our confession in trust and obedience to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.