Faithfulness

I am fairly sure that I would not have made the list.

The list of giants of faith in Hebrews 11 is inspirational to say the least: Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Moses, Rahab and David. Their faith in God is commended and served as inspiration to the Hebrews.

Sometimes steadfast faith, like that of “the ancients,” is easier than others. When God answers a long- prayed prayer with a miracle, my faith is strengthened. Lately, however, it seems harder to keep my eyes on God with all of the giants of fear in our land. My faith is still there, but it is distracted.

Perhaps that is how it was for Caleb. 

As he explored the land, what did he think about the giants who lived there? Around the campfire, did he and Joshua debate the others or admit that the giants were a little scary? Did Caleb reflect on all he had seen in the life of Moses who faithfully followed God just as the writer of Hebrews did? 

You see, Caleb didn’t make the list either (unless you count his name as part of the “too many others to name here.”). His faith did not change a nation in the same way that the others did; he wasn’t a “giant of the faith” but instead, he had faith in a giant God  -- a God who could defeat every giant. 

That’s the type of faith that we can all have and all need. 

If, perhaps, you are distracted by the giants in our land, remember you will find encouragement in these words from Hebrews:

“God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:5b- 8)

The same God, who helped 85-year-old Caleb defeat giants in Joshua 15, will be there for you. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. 

By LaRaine Rice