Hebrews 11:35

“Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.”

Enduring faith trusts in the power of the resurrection. Job was able to shout, “For I know that my redeemer lives, and at the last He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall See God.” Job 19:25-26 ESV. Church this is enduring faith!

Prayer Focus: Unity Baptist Church, Pastor-Richard Bittle

Hebrews 11:36

“Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment.”

The book of Acts is a showcase of enduring faith. Do you ever just sit and reflect on the great men and women of faith? Peter and John knew what it was like to have hands laid upon them and to be thrown into prison. (Acts 4)With enduring faith they boldly proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ despite the mocking, scourgings, chains, and imprisonment. 

Prayer Focus: University Baptist Church, Pastor John Annable.

Hebrews 11:37

“They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented-“

Enduring faith relies on the Grace of God to face any circumstance. Stephen in Acts 7 is another wonderful example of enduring faith. “And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Acts 7:59-60 

Prayer Focus: Winkle Baptist Church, Pastor Jeff Downard

Hebrews 11:38

“of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.”

Enduring faith goes to a lost and dying world. A world full of sinful people not worthy of the good news. Those with enduring faith realize they too were not worthy of God’s grace and mercy and while they were still enemies Christ died for them. Enduring deserts, mountains, and sleeping in dens and caves is worth the hardship to proclaim the wonderful gospel of Jesus Christ!

Prayer Focus: Lake Sallateeska Baptist Camp, Director Brock Vandever

Hebrews 11:39

“And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise,”

Enduring faith is looking forward to the promise! Being able to see the big picture longing for the eternal kingdom that will not be shaken! Standing in the presence of Jesus Christ! 

Prayer Focus: Church Plants in Gorham and Ashley

Hebrews 11:40

“God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.”

Romans 10:15 “And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!” Church enduring faith realizes the mandate Christ gave and strives to fulfill it. Will we see revival? That is the prayer focus before us. Leonard Ravenhill said, “As long as we are content to live without revival we will.” 

Prayer Focus: Revival Throughout Nine Mile Baptist Association

Hebrews 12:1-2

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Enduring faith patterns itself after the examples found in Scripture and dear saints we encounter in this life. Forsaking sin running focused on Jesus Christ who gives enduring faith and has exemplified what a life of endurance looks like. Do you truly know Him? Have you repented of your sin? Are you following Him in the enduring faith He gives?