The World Was Not Worthy of Them

Open Your Bible

Hebrews 11:35-38, Isaiah 63:7-9, Romans 5:1-5, Romans 8:28-39, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

After you finish reading today’s scriptures, come back and use the blurb and question here to dig deeper into the themes of faith, hope, obedience, and suffering. Join your fellow Bible readers in the comments to reflect and chat about what you’re learning!


The stories of those who have great faith don’t look perfect and are not without intense suffering, but they show that the gift of faith is to experience more of God because of the better, eternal hope He has given us in Jesus. 

What “by faith” outcome stood out to you in today’s reading and why?

(174) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

174 thoughts on "The World Was Not Worthy of Them"

  1. Latoddra Mason says:

    Amen

  2. Nicole Powell says:

    Romans 8:28 ,8:37 that’s all I need

  3. Melissa Richards says:

    Amen

  4. Sophie M says:

    So many powerful messages in today’s reading. My favorite verse is Romans 5:3-5 so I lit up with excitement seeing it. God is always with you ladies, no matter where you are at in life he is working with you to help you. Sending you all peace and love tonight!

  5. Tanya Evans says:

    I did get the grant!
    Praise God!

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      That’s awesome Tanya!! Praise God!

    2. Danielle B says:

      Praise God for answered prayers!

  6. Jennifer Anapol says:

    I so want to be comfortable in this life. Reading this devotional today, I am reminded that comfort isn’t the goal of our life. I believe to be conformed to who Jesus called me to be is my purpose. Sometimes God uses suffering to make us more like him. I pray that I would have a more positive view of suffering when I am going through hard times.

    1. Kris says:

      I love your prayer at the end… something I need to pray for too…

  7. Traci Gendron says:

    By faith I walked with God on my journey with my son, Tanner. By faith I knew he was dying and God would receive Tanner in heaven. By faith God showed me Tanner’s smiling face shortly after he died. He brings comfort. He is the father or mercies. God is compassionate. We suffer as Jesus suffered. I find comfort in that because who are we that we should not. Today is the 3rd anniversary of Tanner’s death. I would welcome prayers for peace. Thank you sisters.

    1. Mercy says:

      Dear Father, please cover Traci with comfort, joy and strength this day. Please fill her heart with hope that Tanner is well and he is watching over his mama from heaven praying over her for the rest of her journey, that Tanner is among the cloud of witness over her. Surround TRACI with support and love that her mind will be filled with lovely memories. Remove the burden of grief and heaviness from her and replace it with the oil of gladness. We thank you Lord for your mercies over our sister. In Jesus’ Name I pray.

      1. Traci Gendron says:

        Thank you Mercy for such a beautiful prayer.

      2. Wendy B says:

        May the same loving arms of our Father that welcomed Tanner to his Heavenly home, wrap you in His tender loving embrace and whisper peace and comfort to your heart❤️

    2. Kris says:

      O Father, we come to You knowing that You are the true source of comfort and peace. I pray You would ascend onto Traci today, give her the assurance that You are watching very closely over her son, Tanner. And that You are watching very closely over her, too. You know the suffering she has done, You know the depth of her sorrow. We also know that You are preparing a place just for Traci where she will come and live for all eternity – and have total access to her son at the same time. The joy that awaits her is so great, we can’t even imagine it right now. Thank You for Your faithfulness to Traci these past years. Thank You for the picture of her completely healed and whole son, a picture she can hold dear to in her times of grief. We know that soon our time of grief will be over, and we will live continuously in joy and happiness and peace. We can barely wait for that day. But we know You hold us close while we are here. Thank You for the years You blessed Traci with, the joy she was able to experience while being a mom. There’s just nothing like it. We thank You that she is sustained because of Your great love for her. Bless her today. Be extra close today. We give You thanks and praise.

    3. Tina says:

      Thinking of you Traci. Prayerful your heart knows His peace and thst your thoughts and remembering of Tanner are happy ones.. Remember Tanner well sweet sister.. He was your heart!
      Sending you much love across the pond ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

    4. Rhonda J. says:

      Big hug my friend, it must be so hard. Yes you know God has you, but you miss Tanner terribly. Just know I am thinking of you and praying.

    5. Cee Gee says:

      What a fitting tribute to the blessing that Tanner was in your life! Hugs across the miles, Traci! Praying for the peace that only God can send to your heart as you finish out this day of remembrance. May restful sleep be yours tonight, sweet sister. ❤

    6. Danielle B says:

      Traci joining the other Shes in lifting you in prayer today and the days to come! Loss though a relief for Tanner is still a hard loss for those who love him. May you feel the comfort of the love of your sisters!

    7. GramsieSue says:

      Yes, may you find comfort in God’s arms today and may your memories sustain you until you see Tanner again in heaven.
      Hugs sweet sister ❤️

    8. meg alba says:

      Praying my heart aches for you

  8. Mercy says:

    This really stood out to me “Some were tortured, refusing to accept release so that they might rise again to a better life”. How does one know that the last breath they take on earth, and the next one will be in heaven? UNLESS it’s by faith. I listened to a sermon about the mark of the beast in the end times in the book of Revelations. The global government (the beast) will persecute Christians and force them to receive the “mark of the beast” (whatever that looks like), and if they refuse, they will be killed. If Christians renounce Christ and receive the mark, for fear of man, they will lose heaven and eternal life. But be of good cheer, Jesus has overcome. This is where practicing faith over fear comes in. “Don’t fear those who kill the body but are not able to kill the soul; rather, fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). Be strong. God will make a way. “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man”(Luke 21:36). “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
    .
    PRAYERS LIFTED UP…
    .
    @MICHELLE P: HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you dear sister, wishing you a wonderful birthday filled with love, joy, and laughter. I pray the Lord this year bring you abundance of happiness and success (hope the open mic on Friday be great), and grant you your heart desires.
    @LANIE H: a safe C-section delivery today, healthy baby and mama, and good healing and rest for you, support for days and weeks ahead.
    @TANYA EVANS: provision for your dental care. And the grant that you were applying before (wondering if you got it?).
    @ALEIDA: comfort for your family at the passing of your mom, and strength as you help to sort through her things this week, job provision for Victor and accommodation arrangement before January, peace at home for him and his dad.
    Thank you ladies for your prayers over my mom and I. We talked a little bit yesterday, and I thank God for small progresses.
    .
    Be blessed dear sisters.

    1. Tanya Evans says:

      I did get the grant!
      Praise God!

      1. Mercy says:

        Praise God ❤️ He will help you again and again like He did.

    2. Cee Gee says:

      Great to hear about your mom! ❤ Thanks for sharing all those Scriptures!

  9. Kris says:

    I’m just thinking of the title of this devotional. “The World was Not Worthy of Them”. Our world is so backwards… we put worth on people with money, or people with power, or people in position. We strive to be people who accomplish much or contribute much – but we fail to see the little person who follows God every day, sacrifices conveniences and comforts for her family, someone who never receives public acknowledgement, someone who lives a quiet life but is helping others behind the scenes, someone who prays with faith for her children and grandkids and others. These are the people our world is not worthy of. But they are worth everything in God’s kingdom. I may be small in this world, but I can be big in God’s world simply by having faith and sticking with Him all my days.

    1. Mercy says:

      Amen, the world is not worthy of them. Just like the world is not worthy of Jesus. But GOD always gives the best gifts of all, He gave Himself, He gave His heroes of faith unto this undeserving world with the hope that He can save some, from the great wrath and judgment that is to come. What love, what love, the kind of Love that GOD only knows!

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        Yes, great thoughts Kris and Mercy!!

  10. Audren Phalen says:

    The “By faith” outcome that stood out to me today was that women received their dead. I’m assuming that’s talking about people dying for their faith and their loved ones received them, but why women? Why is that the first thing listed in that verse?

    1. Mercy says:

      I will share some other translations that might help you.
      -Women received back their dead, raised to life again (NIV).
      -Women received their loved ones back again from death (NLT).
      -Women received back their dead by resurrection (NASB).
      I believe this refers to the the Shunammite woman whose dead son Elisha raised from the dead back to life (2 Kings 4:36). And also Elijah also raised up a dead son of another woman who helped him in the ministry (1 Kings 17:23: Then Elijah took the child, brought him down from the upper room into the house, and gave him to his mother. “Look, your son is alive,” Elijah declared).

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        I did not know this,thanks!

    2. Kris says:

      This is just another example of faith in the long list of faith people in Hebrews 11. By the faith of some women, people came back to life. Wow, what faith that would be!!!

  11. Brenda P says:

    Suffering and hardship is normal

  12. Tanya Evans says:

    Prayer request:I am single and God has provided for me. I went to the dentist yesterday and I need a lot of work. I have insurance however my out of pocket portion is more than I can afford. I need God’s intervention and I want to avoid going into debt.

    1. Kris says:

      Father God, Your very name is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. You tell us to have faith in Your very characteristics, so we come boldly before you now, in faith, that You hear our requests and answer them. You see the need in Tanya’s life, and we are grateful for the answer You are going to provide. You know her heart to manage money well, and not wanting to go into debt, so we are relying on You to provide for this need. Thank You for being our loving Father who takes care of every need!! We praise You now for the report Tanya will give us because of Your faithfulness to her.

    2. Rhonda J. says:

      Prayers!

    3. Truth Seeker says:

      Praying for Gods provision in accordance to His will

  13. Jade Gaines says:

    Romans 8:28 stood out to me because I always have faith that everything will work itself out in my favor always. This verse is a confirmation of my faith allowing me to be still and trust in God’s timing and allow His abundant grace and love to pour into me ❤️

  14. Cheryl Blow says:

    I read all of the comments and really appreciated everyone’s perspective. What stood out to me was endurance.

    “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
    ‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭ESV‬‬

    Even in difficult times we can have hope because if God’s live poured out in cb our hearts by the Holy Spirit. We never walk alone! Ps 23 even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, He promised to be with us!

    Love all of you beautiful ladies! Praying for a safe delivery for Lanie. Praying for miracles in your lives! Restoration in homes, healing, courage, and comfort and peace! Praising God for answered prayers! Have a blessed day!

  15. Adrianne says:

    What “by faith” outcome stood out to you in today’s reading and why?

    I think in today’s reading, what stood out to me was that by our faith we are able to endure terrible things with the knowledge that our belief in God, His Son Jesus, and His Spirit protect our spirits. Our souls will be reunited in death and transformed as He brings us into Heaven.

    No matter the turmoil of yesterday, today, or tomorrow, we will have peace and protection through Jesus bringing us home to our Lord.

  16. Maria Baer says:

    To me, ‘by faith’ means approaching every moment of suffering, anxiety, and worry with a heart postured to turns to God in prayer, fully trusting and believing that God is ever-present, sovereign, and faithful.

    1. Tami says:

      Yes shift our view!

  17. Lee Gaar says:

    Yes, thank you, Tami. I was feeling those same things.

  18. Gwineth52 says:

    Hello Shes

    “What ‘by faith’ stood out to me & why?”

    The ancient Israelites & early Christians fell victims to immense physical, mental & emotional harm. Terrifying! Torture! Murder! And in the Pauline letters especially, suffering was seen as heroic, high devotion & radical faithfulness. Persecution! Imprisonment! Martyrdom! The message was in your suffering Christ suffered with you & more. God was present in the pain. The greater the suffering, the greater the reward in glory.

    I admit it’s hard for me to wrap my modern brain around the threat & horror. Whatever suffering I might describe, in the moment today, seems insignificant & non traumatic. Sure, it’s yet to be or I simply don’t see. I am not invulnerable. I do strive to understand the reach & reality of someone else’s pain & suffering. Which can manifest in different ways, visible or not. I suppose we all carry something.

    I end by saying, God is good. All the time.
    He was there when I have had big hurts.
    He resides within the calm of my current situation. He will be there to carry me through whatever lies ahead.

    1. Tami says:

      Love what you said at the end! So true! We in the Western world really know very little about suffering when compared to the rest of the world. I have the privilege of serving on our missions teams and we often go to Central America where we see unimaginable suffering. In conversation with some of the people about suffering, though, they almost expect it. I have heard many say that Christ suffered so why should I expect anything different. It’s a totally different perspective, one that I can’t quite wrap my head around.

      1. Kat D says:

        But one that I think we have to wrap our heads around as we as a country begin to send people back to their countries of origin or most recent country. What would God want us to do or consider?
        .
        Can you imagine if Moses and Joshua were sent back to Egypt or Mary, Joseph and Jesus were sent back to face Herod?
        .
        We are so blessed to have been born in a country where our ‘suffering’ pales in comparison.

        1. Karen Bruno says:

          Kay,
          So true.
          I shudder to think what is ahead for these families and pray that they will be kept together.

  19. Wendy B says:

    I will make known the Lord’s faithful love and the Lord’s praiseworthy acts,
    because of all the Lord has done for us— Isa 63:7

    The examples of by faith outcomes are endless in scripture. They all stand out as reminders that God is who He says He is. It points our hearts to the Lord because there is record of all He has done. Recounting God’s faithfulness, giving Him praise and honor is essential to our faith, to the edification of the church, to building up our brothers and sisters in Christ. It points our hearts to Jesus in times of trial because we have can see the parallel of scripture translating to our own lives.
    By faith we walk through each day. By faith we have peace. By faith we recieve undeserving grace, mercy and forgiveness. By faith we press on in the unknown. By faith we trust God has a plan. By faith we have hope.

    The hymn Faith is the Victory comes to mind this morning. Jesus is our victory.

  20. Rhonda J says:

    I think as Christians we come to God to fix our life, to make it better- yet here we see the ones (the hall of famers of faith) that were not “Miraculously” saved by God–they suffered horribly. Can you imagine not denouncing God when you knew they were going to tie you up and saw you in half??! Or stone you to death? Or like Paul—who we love so much, and would think God saved him to use him—we would THINK he would have a wonderful, every-thing-go-perfect ministry! But he had nothing but calamity around every corner!! Every story in the Bible, and the hall of Faithers- suffered, had trouble, was met with a wall of oppressors. I guess I’m saying we got to suck it up buttercup- and KNOW that it’s going to be hard. Our journey is going to be hard, challenging, up and down, valleys and mountains!!
    That’s why I find that it was imperative to read the scripture through Gen-Rev, study every day, know it, meditate it….because it really helps me to be passionate about it in all areas of my life and to share just what God wants me to in every situation!! The word is in my heart and mind (Jesus with me) but the Holy Spirit to guide me, answer with/for me! God to be my Compass, my center-then everything flows from there.

    Let us not be weary, let us not grow tired and hopeless- these verses and the whole study has been one of my FAVORITES!! I will come back to these readings to share and to get into my hard head!

    1. R says:

      Yesss Rhonda! “For the sufferings of this present time is not worthy to be compared to the glory that will be revealed in us”!
      Want you to know that I needed that “suck it up buttercup” today! Sometimes we need a perspective check and I thank you for having the courage to give it to us!!!!

    2. Mercy says:

      I also need that suck it up buttercup.

  21. Sarah M says:

    Lord, please grant me the same faith to endure my sufferings as those mentioned today. I crave safety and peace. Help me to ask You to use me as You see fit and to be happy in it. Amen.

  22. Jane K says:

    Praying for the Lord to continue to work in the lives of your son and daughter and praising Him for the answered prayers of bringing them home!

  23. Barb D says:

    We always want to read Hebrews 11 and lionize these heroes of the faith, but like to forget the suffering part, don’t we? But God both increases our faith through and gives us the faith, no matter how tiny, to endure the suffering. I founded and ran a ministry serving parents of kids with special needs, chronic illnesses, and disabilities for 16 years. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 was our key verse. That suffering that we endure faithfully grows us into the type of people God can use to comfort and grow the faith of others. It has infinite worth in Christ.
    – Lanie – Praying for a safe, joyful delivery.
    – Danielle – Praising God for your good news!
    – Julie – Praising God that you have seen his activity in your storm and praying for continued blessings in your new job.

    1. Rhonda J says:

      What a wonderful ministry to feel led to start!! That must have been a wonderful blessing to those parents!! We need comfort so much when we are going through our trials…and it is those of powerful faith that helps, usually the ones that suffered the same! God uses our TESTS to be our testimony!!

    2. Traci Gendron says:

      As a mom of a son that had a rare illness this had to be a blessing to so many parents!

    3. Danielle B says:

      Thank you Barb!

  24. Cee Gee says:

    What “by faith” outcome stood out to you in today’s reading and why?
    BY FAITH they triumphed over evil, suffering, and persecution and developed patient endurance in their pursuit of HOPE, COMFORT, and PERFECT PEACE that only comes from our faithful and loving God. BY FAITH we know He is working everything out.
    .
    Gonna Be Alright
    Song by
    Ryan Ellis
    “You hear my cry, my deepest pain
    You listen patiently as long as it takes
    You whisper truth over the lies
    The words that bring me back to life
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    You hold me in Your arms
    Until my storm is calm
    Everything’s gonna be alright, hmmm
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    You are the strength when I am weak
    The only one that leads my soul to perfect peace
    And I will sing my way through the night
    The words that bring me back to life
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    You hold me in Your arms
    Until my storm is calm
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Your love will be my song
    ‘Til all my fears are gone
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    And I believe, oh I believe
    You’re working all things for my good
    You’re working all things for my good
    And I believe, yes, I believe
    You’re working all things for my good
    You’re working all things
    And everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    You hold me in Your arms
    ‘Til all my fear is gone
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Your love will be my song
    ‘Til all my fears are gone
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    Everything’s gonna be alright
    I believe, yes I believe
    You’re working all things for my good
    You’re working all things for my good”
    Songwriters: Ben Cantelon, Ryan Ellis, Ethan Gregory Hulse.
    .
    “You are the strength when I am weak
    The only one that leads my soul to perfect peace.
    And I will sing my way through the night.”
    .
    LANIE H – you and baby girl have been in my prayers through the night and will remain in my prayers! ❤
    Prayers appreciated for safety as we have a major project happening at our house today. Workers just got here.Thanks in advance!
    .
    Continued prayers for you sisters. Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤

  25. Gloria D says:

    By faith we can know that any suffering we go through will have a purpose, even if the only purpose we can see is comforting someone else going through the same thing.

    1. Darby Byrd says:

      Amen Gloria

    2. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes, Gloria D. The Lord says lean on one another.

  26. Mari V says:

    Romans 5 really spoke to me this morning! Our sufferings (disappointments) will not go to waste or in other words if we allow them to can be used for the glory of our Jesus! Verses 3-5 really stood out to me. Glory in our sufferings. Produces perseverance. Perseverance character (haha needed this to laugh this morning) Character hope. Hope doesn’t put us to shame (though in my human nature it does) BUT GOD….Our sweet Jesus, see us through differently. Thank you Jesus as I went to bed not feeling good about myself, then I read this in Romans. God is good! And boy does my character need some work/building.

  27. Mari G says:

    They wandered…. Faith in the wandering and waiting is not easy. I put my hope in God! There is no other option. We are waiting for college acceptance emails/letters and it’s SO hard seeing everyone else receive word….while my daughter waits. This study on faith has been so important for me during this time of waiting. Lord, may your will be done!

    1. Mari V says:

      Good morning Mari G. Kinda funny to address another Mari in this study. “Mari” is my family nickname so that’s the name I use here at SRT. EVERYONE here has become my family. PRAYING for your daughter as she waits for college acceptance and for you as well as us its hard on us mom’s as well. Your daughter I’m assuming is a senior in high school? My daughter just started her first year, here at our local community college as a transfer student. In 2 years I’ll be asking for the same request when she waits for acceptance. Hang in there mama.

    2. Wendy B says:

      Waiting for acceptance to University was a very difficult process for my oldest daughter. She actually did not get in the first year and the disappointment rocked her. She started working, reapplied for the following year and again, was not accepted. It was devastating. But, she was certain of what direction the Lord had for her, just had to seek out a different avenue to get to her goal, focused on growing in her faith, rooted friendships and serving. The Lord had a way, a different way and we can see now, a much, much better way. Her faith grew so much in the waiting, in this whole process. The story the Lord had for her was so much better than the well planned one she had thought out for herself.
      May the Lord use this experience of waiting for your daughter to grow in faith and trust that the Lord knows the desires of heart and He will make a way.

  28. Julie Ganucheau says:

    The gift of faith is to experience more of God – stood out to me as well. 4 weeks ago, I was laid off after 20 years in a stressful job- very scary for a 63 year old. BUT GOD had a plan. 3 days later, my dad who survived cancer earlier this year, was in the ER – only to be taken off life support this past Sat. BUT GOD gave me these past few weeks to spend precious time by my dad’s side. Time I would not have had if I had been working. GOD also provided a new job two weeks after I lost my other one, that didn’t start until this past Monday (after my dad had passed). Not just any job, but a wonderful, family centered, compassionate company. BUT GOD … only GOD could have walked through this with me and provided like he did. I’m in awe and amazed at His great love. My faith took big steps forward over these past weeks. GOD is good!!

    1. Kathy A says:

      Rejoicing with you, Julie. I totally understand – was laid off, actually twice, but God provided inspired soft landings both times. My life is better for the initial hurt and fear I experienced. I am so sorry about your Dad, but thank God he orchestrated the timing as He did. God bless and keep you!

    2. Heather O'Malley says:

      Praise God!

    3. Michelle P says:

      Wow. God is so in the details. I pray peace and grace to you in this time of grief. God bless you, Julie. So sorry for your loss.

    4. Wendy B says:

      Im so sorry about your Dad. What a beautiful testimony of God’s hand at work in such a difficult time. ❤️

    5. Rhonda J says:

      What a wonderful testimony. When I closed my business, my mom passed and I was able to go and spend lots of time with my dad in the months that followed. It is surely a blessing, thank you Lord.

      1. Rhonda J says:

        sorry for your loss.

    6. Mari V says:

      So sorry about your dad. AND SO glad God made a way to spend time with him during his last days. God has an amazing way of doing things. AND grateful and happy for you for your new and less stressful job.

    7. Jane K says:

      Thank you for sharing this, Julie! What a wonderful reminder of the love and compassion our Father has for us!

    8. Lynne from Alabama says:

      I’m so sorry about your dad, dear sister. I’m glad you got to spend that extra time with him. Praying for you and your family.
      ❤️

    9. Carol H says:

      So sorry for your loss, Julie.
      The sadness of loss along with the thankfulness for time and a new job, God so knows our hearts and always prepares a way ❤️

    10. Kristy says:

      This is amazing! God knew! So glad that you could spend those weeks with your father.

    11. Mercy says:

      Thank you Julie for sharing. Prayers for strength and comfort over your family.

    12. Tina says:

      Julie, this was my story. I was pushed out of my job. Daughter got poorly and I was able to be with her every minute of every day in the last 3 months of her life, often holding her and sharing a pillow in her hospital bed. God was so kind and gracious in those days.. He hasn’t stopped!
      So very glad you got to be with dad.. So sorry for your loss. Praying that the peace of God surrounds you as you mourn and make plans towards the new season ahead.. He is with you.. God bless you..❤️

      1. Julie Ganucheau says:

        ❤️❤️❤️

    13. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Sorry for your loss

    14. Danielle B says:

      Thank you Barb!

    15. Danielle B says:

      Julie, I’m sorry for your loss. I’m glad God gave you that time with you dad.

  29. Morgan Dunbar says:

    Good morning. I am not new to SRT, but giving the app another try in my morning readings. Praying for each of you today!

  30. Aimee D-R says:

    We receive access to Him by faith! I want full access, need full access for even the next step. I am so grateful Lord Jesus. I believe. Amen

  31. Cat-tee says:

    God is good ❤️

  32. Kimberly Reed says:

    Love all of these posts. I have to say I am walking out my door everyday full of faith. Faith that my car will start and will get to my destination safely. Faith that the food I eat and prepare nourishes bodies. Faith my adult children will return to Jesus and He will be the Lord of their lives. And I have faith that Jesus will help me grow spiritually and allow my faith muscles to increase in size. I share my faith with every opportunity I’m given but in that I have faith that the Lord will speak through me and use me for His purposes.
    The readings exemplify tremendous faithful actions and my life cannot compare to theirs. So the readings really help encourage and cheer me on knowing that God will work it all out for my good and HIS glory!! Amen♥️♥️

    1. Carol J Mylin says:

      ♥️

  33. Willow Higgins says:

    Justified by grace lead to obtaining grace lead to hope and hope will not disappoint us.

  34. Danielle B says:

    Some were tortured and refused release to rise to a better life. How often do we tell God to let our suffering continue? Most times, we probably pray for it to end quickly. We enjoy our comfort. I know in this season of storms, I certainly prayed for relief, But God has shown me there is purpose in the hard season. He has drawn me closer to Him and deeper trust. He has taught me true surrender.

    Ladies thank you for your prayers! I received the official call yesterday that the mass is benign and not a high risk to become cancer.

    1. Cat-tee says:

      God is too ❤️

    2. Adrienne says:

      PTL!! ❤️❤️

    3. Carol J Mylin says:

      ♥️♥️♥️

    4. Darby Byrd says:

      Praise God!! I’m so happy for you !

    5. Jane K says:

      Praise God for answered prayers, Danielle!

    6. Wendy B says:

      Praise the Lord! ❤️

    7. Gwineth52 says:

      Dear Danielle B
      Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

    8. Tami says:

      Thank God!

    9. Tina says:

      Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord indeed.❤️

    10. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Rejoicing in God’s kindness and mercy at the test results

    11. Cee Gee says:

      ❤❤❤

  35. Tami says:

    What “by faith” outcome stood out to you in today’s reading and why?
    (By faith) “ they were stoned, they were sawed in two, they died by the sword”. Part of my coming to faith journey was an Alpha class that I took. In one of the sessions they taught about how the disciples choose to be killed in brutal ways instead of renouncing their faith in Jesus. I remember thinking, “why would they do that if it weren’t true?” It really helped me to start to believe that the story of Jesus was true.
    Now 10 years later, my question is more directed to myself. Would I suffer for Christ? If given the choice to die or renounce him? I would choose the latter. I don’t even want to suffer in small ways, like being judged by others for my faith. What courage and faith these disciples had! And so many others around the world who are willing to die for their faith. Very humbling to me. Thankfully God is not calling me to be martyred. BUT… Maybe, just maybe, I can find the courage to be more bold in my faith to those around me, even if it means I will “suffer” their judgment.

    1. Jen F says:

      Thank you Tami for voicing the words I find hard to say. You are not alone with your statement. May God give me the courage to be bold in my faith as well!

    2. Cat-tee says:

      Amen ❤️

    3. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes, Tami.
      You hit on important points!

  36. Alli Barlik says:

    By faith—many not named, and we just like them at times, received such good things but some terrible things. Family members raised to life while others were tortured. But God! He loved them and He loves us so much

  37. Searching says:

    As I finished reading the chapter 11 verses, I had 2 main thoughts – what brave and courageous faith these early believers had!, and wow, how clueless I am as I go through life.

    TRACI GENDRON – thinking about you this day, praying for peace in your heart as memories of Tanner come to mind. ❤️

    MARGARET W – praying for Liz and the family over the sudden and painful loss of her husband; for comfort, guidance and wisdom in the coming days. ❤️

    MERCY – praying for you and your mom today, sister, that you are able to stay strong, that relationships would be healed, especially with the Lord. Our God can do anything. ❤️

    1. Mercy says:

      Appreciate you so much ❤️…joining you in prayers for our dear shes.

  38. Laura says:

    “…the gift of faith is to experience more of God.” This stood out to me as I reflect on experiences I have had that have grown my faith. God has brought me through so many storms where I had to just have faith, even though I saw no movement, no solution in sight. But that experience certainly did show me more of God, and what a gift!

    I have a praise to lift up. My family has been in such a spiritual battle for so long and so many prayers have gone up on our behalf. Prayers for my youngest daughter to come back to us and leave a homosexual and toxic relationship, for my husband, which I didn’t share a lot but God knew our struggles and for my son, who walked away from his faith in his early twenties. Well, we are seeing God move in a mighty way in all of these situations. Our daughter is back with us and our relationship is thriving, my husband is healing from his struggles and my son just informed us that he broke off a relationship and is moving back home to be nearer to his family. All of these are miracles from God and are struggles that have certainly strengthened my faith through the years. Although the ultimate answer to prayer is a confession of faith by my children, this openness to be back with family is certainly God’s intervention and love for our family. One of my friend’s described it this way, that our family is being unshackled. That’s what it has felt like for so long and I can feel the shackles falling off, the blinders being removed. Praise God!

    1. Tami says:

      Amen Laura. We have all witnessed how you have walked out these struggles in faith. I’m so happy for you and pray that the shackles continue to come off.

    2. Karen Elizabeth says:

      Praise the Lord!

    3. Julia C says:

      ♥️

    4. Penny W says:

      ❤️

    5. Adrienne says:

      ❤️❤️

    6. Barb D says:

      Glory, Laura! What a testimony to share! ❤️

    7. Rhonda J says:

      Oh the sorrows seem to last so long, the valleys when we are in them, and they hurt…but then when we see the story of our lives if hindsight and how God is faithful to work things for the good of many that love him, it is fortifying our faith and the faithful love he gives us. I am praying that the shackles continue to fall! I hope you are keeping these notes of your story…Hall of Faith of Laura, for those that come after in your family-for they are so impactful!! We all need our Faith of ________ story in writing to share to our grandkids and their kids! Isn’t God amazing!!

    8. Wendy B says:

      Praise the Lord!❤️

    9. Rachel says:

      SO encouraging! I thought of you when I read the passage about “comfort others with the comfort you have received”…your faith in the face of these difficult family relationships has helped me so much as I face similar relational anguish. Thank you.

    10. MARTHA HIX says:

      ❤️

    11. Mercy says:

      Families and marriages are always under relentless attack of the devil! Dear shes, please never stop praying for your husband and your children. Thank you LAURA for exposing the tactics of the enemies by sharing. I love our sisters that share their struggles with such transparency, putting themselves out there, like the watchmen who sense evil, and cry wolf that we can take caution. I love how you shared a while back, people should not just share their crown, but also their cross. Don’t be the fake and the perfect Christians- perfect Christians don’t exist (if they do, it’s a fabricated image of self in the vain fancies of the mind- an idolatry that needs to be brought down, and repent of). True Christ followers are described here in what we read. Joining you in prayers Laura for continual breakthroughs and healing in your family.

    12. Tina says:

      Praise the Lord! Laura, Praising the Lord, indeed from whom ALL blessings flow! He is good.❤️

  39. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Verse 38 “The world was not worthy of them.”
    .
    Not exactly an outcome, but I thought it was an interesting commentary about the culture/society that the heros of faith had to navigate.
    .
    ERB – hope all is well with you ❤️
    .
    MERCY – prayers for peace of mind and soul for you today. Praying your mom’s heart would soften to Jesus. Also praying for your eyes.
    .
    CATHERINE MCVEY – how’s Lisa?
    .
    JESSICA H – how’s Isabelle?
    .
    TAYLOR – any updates on your work situation?
    .
    HERSH – how is your daughter navigating college?
    .
    HEIDI – praying all is well with and your family.
    .
    SHARON JERSEY GIRL – any pdate on Scott?
    .
    WENDY B – continuing to pray for the Lord to guide you and give you peace.

    1. Wendy B says:

      Thank you❤️

    2. Mercy says:

      Thank you dear Kelly ❤️

  40. Anna Whitt says:

    By faith, we know that God is for us and works in us during all circumstances. We are “more than conquerors” because of HIm. Christ is our victory and because of his death and resurrection “neither death nor life, angels nor demons, neither present or FUTURE, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is Christ Jesus our Lord.”

    Praise God!!!

    1. Mary Ann Graves says:

      Amen

    2. Gwineth52 says:

      Yes, Anna
      “Nothing can separate us from the love of God” is an excellent, all purpose response to whatever doubtful or hurtful slice of life.

  41. Lanie H says:

    So happy I had my Romans 8 again this morning for encouragement on the way to the hospital! Pray that everything will work out for the good

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Praying LANIE! Soon you will be holding little girl in your arms! Update us when you are up to it❣️

    2. Searching says:

      LANIE ❤️ praying everything goes smoothly this morning, healthy baby, healthy mommy (and quick recovery).

    3. Laura says:

      Praying for you and your sweet baby girl, Lanie. Can’t wait to hear of her arrival!

    4. Tami says:

      Praying for you and the baby today!

    5. Jen F says:

      Praying for you and your baby❣️

    6. Julia C says:

      Praying, Lanie ❤️

    7. Cat-tee says:

      Praying for you and Baby ❤️

    8. Emily B. says:

      I immediately thought of you and had to check for a comment right away to see if you were headed to the hospital. Praying for you and your precious girl!

    9. Adrienne says:

      ❤️❤️

    10. Michelle P says:

      ❤️ God is with you girl!

    11. Rhonda J says:

      Excited for you Lanie!! Knowing the Lord is going to surround you today!!

    12. Darby Byrd says:

      Praying lanie!

    13. Carol H says:

      Continued prayers for you and baby girl, Lanie. God has put you both on my heart this week. God bless you both ❤️

    14. Wendy B says:

      Praying for you Lanie❤️

    15. Donna Wolcott says:

      Praying a safe delivery and blessings for your new bundle of joy!

    16. Kris says:

      Praying for a safe and uncomplicated labor and delivery!! and a very healthy baby!!!

    17. MARTHA HIX says:

      ❤️

    18. AZ Walker says:

      Praying that everything is going smoothly for you Lanie and your dear baby girl.

    19. Lanie H says:

      Thank you everyone! Prayers were definitely felt, and everything went well. We are both doing great!

      1. Tina says:

        Praying Lanie..❤️

        .
        She has arrived! Ahh, praise God! Congratulations Lanie.. thankful you are both doing great! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

      2. Rhonda J. says:

        Yay!!! Praise God!!

      3. Kelly (NEO) says:

        Woohoo

      4. Cee Gee says:

        LANIE, I am thrilled and relieved! I can’t wait to hear more when you are able! What a blessing!!! ❤

      5. Adrienne says:

        ❤️❤️

    20. Traci Gendron says:

      Praying Lanie!

  42. Tina says:

    Twice. Twice, I wrote out my comment.. And twice it disappeared!!!
    Gutted.
    .
    Happy Wednesday my people.. By faith I send this one, hope-filled you will receive the love, love, love I send across the pond, covered in prayers, requested or felt to..❤

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      :-(

    2. Searching says:

      How frustrating , TINA :( ❤️ I’m being more consistent in writing my comment in my notes app and then copying it here. Love you, sister!

    3. Cat-tee says:

      As evidenced by a couple of my responses that were misplaced or mistyped the struggle with responding was real for me as well! Happy Wednesday ❤️

    4. Adrienne says:

      ❤️❤️

    5. Rhonda J says:

      Ugh, I hate when that happens!

    6. Mercy says:

      Oh no, now i can’t stop wondering what you wrote. Bummer.

    7. Cee Gee says:

      Received and blessed! ❤

  43. Julia Guice says:

    Being mocked really stood out for me. You can be mocked so much as a believer, that you almost shy away from sharing your faith.

    But God.

    He is the One who gives us grace and strength to keep on going, keep on praying, and to keep on sharing our faith. All praise be to the glory and honor of Our Father in heaven, Lord of the Universe!

    Have a blessed day!

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Agree.

    2. Tami says:

      yes so true!

  44. Jo Turnbull says:

    Mistreated stood out to me. The other stuff is so extreme that in my life it’s hard to imagine, but mistreated is so accurate and it made me realise I care what perception others have of me, not for the sake of Christ but for the sake of me. I need to be obedient without fear of being misunderstood and mistreated.

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      So true…

    2. Rhonda J says:

      Yes, agreeing on that!! May we suffer for Christ as He suffered for US that we have his precious gift and not take it for granted!! He should be the center of our life so that if we are shouting from the roof top or living it out in our daily life, that people see Him.

    3. Mercy says:

      Amen Jo. Mistreated is such true reality. And other stuff even being killed for their faith is happening right now to Christians in other nations (middle east and muslim countries). I read this and the Spirit prompted me to pray for Christians who are right now in prison and being tortured, threatened to be killed for preaching the gospel.

  45. Anna Faith says:

    By Faith I can Take The Best Next Step!