Faith—the objective content of the future and our subjective certainty about that content—is the one thing we need to face the future. By looking to the ordinary people who have gone before us in faith, we are encouraged to grow more certain about the promises we have received. Our belief in our future home affects how we live in the present.

Scripture References

Hebrews 11:1-38

You Reign | Grace Church Worship | iTunes
Psalm 146 • Psalm 47:5-9 • 1 Chronicles 29:10-20

The Greatness of Our God | Hillsong Live | iTunes
Deuteronomy 32:1-3 • Romans 8:38-39 • Isaiah 40:26-31 • Jeremiah 10:6

Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing | Grace Church Worship
Ephesians 2:7-8 • 1 Peter 2:9-10 • Colossians 1:21-22 • 1 Corinthians 1:22

What a Saviour | Hillsong Worship | iTunes
John 9:35-39 • Psalm 71:14 • Psalm 149:4

Give Me Faith | Elevation Worship | iTunes
Psalm 73:25-26

Sing to the Lord | Grace Church Worship
Psalm 96, Isaiah 49:13, Revelation 7:12

1. Chris Curtis emphasized that actions are always determined by beliefs. What lies do you believe in moments of weakness that lead you to act in ways you know are wrong or unwise?

2. Old Testament characters spent much of their lives finding, conquering, and fighting to keep possession of their land. Because we live in a different time, we are more easily tempted to make this world our home. How do you find yourself working to increase your comfort on earth? Do you run after accomplishments to validate that you belong? Or do you strive for comfort and ease and ignore the brokenness around you?

3. The writer of Hebrews describes varying results of a life of faith—from conquering kingdoms to being killed by stoning. How is your relationship with God affected by what you expect from Him? Do you find yourself frustrated or angry when He doesn’t give you what you think you deserve? What truths about the goodness of God and his promises do you need to remember?

4. We were reminded that there is no such thing as a life without faith. It may be that your faith is in yourself and your abilities. If that is the case, consider that there is only one truly reliable place to put your faith–in the person of Jesus. Ask God to give you this faith.

Thoughts to Consider

-Our faith does not determine the reality of Jesus, but it does determine the level of our participation with Him.

-Since we are foreigners and nomads on earth, this world will never feel quite right. We should always be a little uncomfortable and unfamiliar.

-Often times, the results of faith are delayed. We are not guaranteed to see God’s promises fulfilled in our lifetime.

-The examples of faith given in this chapter were just ordinary, imperfect people, who took action based on the truths they believed about God, reminding us that we too can live a life of faith.