Read

Hebrews 11:32-40

³²Well, how much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. ³³By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, ³⁴quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. ³⁵Women received their loved ones back again from death.

But others trusted God and were tortured, preferring to die rather than turn from God and be free. They placed their hope in the resurrection to a better life. ³⁶Some were mocked, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in dungeons. ³⁷Some died by stoning, and some were sawed in half; others were killed with the sword. Some went about in skins of sheep and goats, hungry and oppressed and mistreated. ³⁸They were too good for this world. They wandered over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground.

³⁹All of these people we have mentioned received God’s approval because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. ⁴⁰For God had far better things in mind for us that would also benefit them, for they can’t receive the prize at the end of the race until we finish the race.

Reflect

The David and Goliath story in the Bible has become so popular that it is widely recognized even in secular circles. It is the ultimate small versus big set up. The small town rural boy over-coming the big city giant! The story is great but what is often left out is that David only accomplished what he did because of his faith in God. David knew that God would even out the competitive advantage that Goliath had on him.

Through our faith in God, we can also stand up to our own Goliath. I always try to remember what Paul asked the Romans, “What can we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” _{(Rom 8:31)}

Respond

Does your faith make you stronger?

What weakness in your life have you overcome because of your faith?

Will your faith garner God’s approval?

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