ABIDE - DAY 1

Let’s Read

Hebrews 11:1-12

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

The writer of Hebrews was really trying to push a point here. He said “Now faith is…” Notice he didn’t say “faith could be” or “faith might be”. He said “FAITH IS” 2 very separate things: “Substance of things hoped for” & “Evidence of things not seen”. These are 2 very distinct features that we cannot miss!

The original greek word used here for “Substance” is “hypostasis” which means; a setting or placing under; that which has foundation, is firm; the steadfastness of mind, firmness, courage, resolution.

The original greek word used here for “Evidence” is “elegchos” which means a “a proof, that by which a thing is proved or tested”

This could be translated to say: Faith is an actual firm foundation that we can both rely and depend upon for things that are hoped for and it is rock solid proof of the things we just cannot see.

Take a look at how the writer went on to show this very principle in 3 different circumstances, in the next few passages through Abel, Abraham, and Sarah.

4 By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks. 5 By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. 7 By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; 10 for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
11 By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude—innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.

Which of these faith stories do you most identify with?

What is God trying to show you through that story?

In todays service the word ABIDE is highlighted. It is the basis of this entire 21 day fast.

1 Corinthians 13:13 -  “And now ABIDE in faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.


Faith as our firm foundation and rock solid proof is where we are supposed to ABIDE from!