The continuation of the Faithfulness Series. Check out the heroes of faith:
Hebrews 11:22 - Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions concerning the burial of his bones.
Lesson to Learn: Speak while you can, but be careful and control your tongue. We are to learn from history, to be warned and understand what not to do, and to be encouraged and obey what we are to do. We are not to dwell in the past, but learn from it and use it as guidance for our lives and the lives of others. Be faithful by telling others and your children about the many ways God has blessed us, fulfilled His promises, and loved us. Go back to Genesis and read the beautiful nature of God and His endless love for humans, especially for the Israelites. Parents are the teachers if you do not pour truth and God's Word into your children, who will? Don't forget all that God has done for us throughout the creation of this world, and be encouraged as reading the Old Testament should boost your love and faithfulness for God.
Hebrews 11:23 - Moses’ parents
Lesson to Learn: We are to submit to authority and respect our leaders, but God is our first and utmost King! Even in hardship, be obedient to God. Even if it brings persecution in this life, if you remain faithful to God, you will be blessed and honored in heaven. Don't forget, we are not just physical beings, we are spiritual beings as well and we are to live by the Spirit and for the Spirit. Be brave! Be bold! Be faithful!
Hebrews 11:24-28 - Moses
Lesson to Learn: Remember who you belong to. Care for those worse off than you. "He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin." Remember to store up your treasure in heaven, anything on earth will pass away and be destroyed. Do not fear humans, even kings, for they are mortal and will answer to God. Only fear (a godly fear) God, and place Him first in your life.
Hebrews 11:29 - The people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land
Lesson to Learn: Faithful people of God will be saved and rescued. Keep your eyes on Jesus, focus on Him. God is bigger than any human being, God is bigger than any animal, God is bigger than any evil. He is the Creator of all things, all-powerful, all-knowing, always with you.
Hebrews 11:30 - The walls of Jericho fell
Lesson to Learn: Even when things do not seem to make sense, obey God. As stated before God knows all and His ways are not our ways. Disregard your own limitations and doubts, and ignore other's opinions. God is the only voice you should and need to listen to. God will not harm you, what He says, He does. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Hebrews 11:31 - Rahab
Lesson to Learn: Being obedient to God results in faithfulness. When you have faith in God and His Word, it affects your family and friends, those who are around you. By being obedient to God, you might just save those you love and leave a legacy behind.
Hebrews 11:32-40 - Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets.
Lessons to Learn: Gideon: God's strength is revealed through our weaknesses. Focus on God and His Word, not human's expectations, or worldly limits. If God tells you to go, go. God will provide the strength needed. Barak: God is always with you and He goes before you. Do not fear or hesitate, just obey. Samson: God calls us to be separate from this world. We are living in it right now, but we are not to be of it. We are set apart, and heaven is our home. God gives us all talents and gifts, we are to use them to bring Him glory and honor. When we fail, get back up and start again. Do not fear others, God is Lord of all and He will be with you. Stand firm against evil and stay anchored to Jesus Christ. As the Bible states in John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." Continue until the end! Jephthah: It does not matter where you come from, God has a plan for you and God loves you. We all have a calling and are needed. We all are useful and gifted. Remember that everything is God's, do not cling to anything in this world, for it will all pass away and the only thing left will be your faith, soul, and the seeds you are sowed while you were on this earth. David: Seek to have a heart like Jesus, pray for the softening of your heart and compassion for others. When you fail, no matter how big, you can always come back to Jesus, He will forgive you and restore you. Live a life that is pleasing to God and each thing you do or say, may it be for God to advance His kingdom and bring Him praise. Samuel: Minister to others, read God's Word to hear from Him. Have a close relationship with God and always seek to be closer to Him. Always be ready and willing to obey God. Listen with open ears and a patient heart. Meditate and ponder on God's Word, taking it into your mind and heart.