What more shall I say? - O le a se isi tala ou te toe fai atu?

Scripture Focus: Eperu 11:23-40

By faith, Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment. By faith, Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to share ill treatment with God’s people, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a time; accounting the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he looked to the reward. By faith, he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. By faith, he kept the Passover, and the sprinkling of the blood, that the destroyer of the firstborn should not touch them. By faith, they passed through the Red Sea as on dry land. When the Egyptians tried to do so, they were swallowed up. By faith, the walls of Jericho fell down, after they had been encircled for seven days. By faith, Rahab the prostitute, didn’t perish with those who were disobedient, having received the spies in peace. What more shall I say? For the time would fail me if I told of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets; who, through faith subdued kingdoms, worked out righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, grew mighty in war, and caused foreign armies to flee. Women received their dead by resurrection. Others were tortured, not accepting their deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Others were tried by mocking and scourging, yes, moreover by bonds and imprisonment. They were stoned. They were sawn apart. They were tempted. They were slain with the sword. They went around in sheep skins and in goat skins; being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated (of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts, mountains, caves, and the holes of the earth. These all, having had testimony given to them through their faith, didn’t receive the promise, God having provided some better thing concerning us, so that apart from us they should not be made perfect.
- Hebrews 11:23-40 (WEB)

Study:

This passage in Hebrews 11 vividly portrays the steadfast faith of many Old Testament heroes. Their faith was not a fleeting feeling, but a firm trust in God’s promises despite unseen outcomes and severe trials. From Moses hidden by his parents, to Rahab's courageous protection of Israel’s spies, to the miraculous fall of Jericho’s walls, faith was their foundation. The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the relentless faith of these individuals who faced hardships, persecutions, and even death, yet remained unwavering. Collectively, their stories inspire us to persevere and trust in God's faithfulness, knowing that the ultimate fulfillment of His promises is yet to come and that God has provided a better hope for us all.

Application:

In our daily walk, faith demands more than passive belief; it invites active trust in God's plans, even when circumstances are challenging or the future uncertain. Like the heroes in Hebrews 11, we face trials that test our endurance and commitment. This passage encourages us to fix our eyes on the eternal reward rather than temporary difficulties. Embracing this faith enables us to live courageously, act righteously, and hold firm to God’s promises. When discouragement or fear arises, we can recall their examples to fuel our hope and courage, trusting that God’s invisible presence sustains us through it all.

Reflection Questions:

• What areas of your life require stronger faith in God’s promises today?
• How do the examples of Moses, Rahab, and others inspire you to face your challenges?
• In what ways can you better endure hardships while focusing on the eternal reward?
• Are there any fears or doubts you need to surrender to God in faith?
• How can you encourage others around you to walk faithfully amidst trials?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the powerful examples of faith in Your Word. Strengthen my trust in You, especially when I cannot see the full picture. Help me to endure challenges with courage and to fix my eyes on Your eternal promises. May my faith inspire others, and may I walk steadfastly in obedience, knowing You are always with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: faith, Hebrews 11, Bible study, perseverance, trust in God, Moses, Rahab, biblical heroes, spiritual endurance, Christian faith, hope, endurance in trials