By Faith: Devotional Series in Hebrews 11

Hebrews 11 is one of the most emblematic chapters in the Bible. It’s often called the “Hall of Fame of Faith” because in it we find a list of men and women who lived trusting in God’s promises.

These characters not only believed in God, but that faith profoundly impacted their lives and decisions.

In this devotional series “By Faith,” we explore the lives of these characters and are exhorted to live with the same conviction they had. Our goal is for faith to translate into actions that glorify God and reflect His work in our lives.

Before diving fully into the life of Abel, the first example, let’s look at the context of the book as an introduction to this series.

Context of the Letter to the Hebrews

The letter to the Hebrews is considered anonymous, as its author is not explicitly mentioned. What we do know is that this letter is addressed to a group of Jewish believers, and the main message the author wants to convey to this group is that Jesus is superior to everything they know for their well-being.

Throughout the letter, covenants, sacrifices, the law, the temple, rest, and the patriarchs they admired are mentioned, and the conclusion is always that Jesus is superior or better than all of that. Jesus, the Son of God, is the Father’s provision for our salvation, such a great salvation because of the nature of its executor. (Hebrews 2)

Throughout the letter, we are exhorted to live in response to this truth: drawing near to Him, guarding the salvation He has given us, growing in holiness, defending the truth, and persevering with faith.

The Christian life is a call to be brave and to strive while we wait for the complete revelation of Christ on the final day, when we will finally enter eternal rest.

Meanwhile, the author encourages us to meditate on the examples of faith presented in Hebrews 11: ordinary men and women, like you and like me, who faced challenges and weaknesses but who anchored their lives in their faith in God.

What is Faith, according to Hebrews 11:1-3?

Hebrews 11 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Faith is not a passing feeling, nor a vague idea. It is firm confidence in God’s Word revealed through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2).

Faith is having assurance, that is, the security that everything Jesus did regarding our salvation and future hope will be complete. Faith allows us to rest in the truths presented in the previous chapters. Furthermore, it moves us to live our lives in response to Christ’s nature.

By presenting these examples of people who lived by faith, with their trust placed in God’s promises and in what was to come. He is calling us to look at our lives in the everyday and evaluate whether we are living in response to the great salvation we have received through Christ.

Living by Faith

We have seen the truths the author of the letter defends: Christ is better, and our response should be a life full of faith. As James 2:17 affirms, “So also faith, if it does not have works, is dead.” True faith produces visible fruits in our daily lives.

My prayer is that this devotional series strengthens your faith, not only in knowledge but also in action. If you haven’t read the book of Hebrews recently, I encourage you to do so to meditate on the truths that guide us to a life lived by faith.

Reflection Questions

• In what areas of your life do you need to remember that Jesus is better and sufficient?
• How is your faith impacting your daily decisions?
• Is your trust in God’s promises reflected in concrete actions?
• As you consider the examples in Hebrews 11, what lesson do you hope to learn to strengthen your walk with Christ?