CONNECTING POINT: Company of Faith

I grew up in the era of the “Bad News Bears” culture, iconic movies that inspired the underdogs to keep in the game. Most people like an inspiring story because the topic resonates in our lives differently. You may have been one of those kids who was awkwardly picked last on the school playground. Or you might be self-conscious and strive to over-achieve because you received little or no affirmation. My point is that we need someone in our corner to encourage us not to give up.

In time and with age, we have learned that life is much more than a sports game. Competition is good and can develop some great character traits. For many years, I’ve been a proponent of developing Christ-like characteristics because many other experiences in life fade or change. Faith is a Biblical concept that can easily be misconstrued or misapplied based on a hedonistic mindset. Merriam-Webster defines hedonism as “the doctrine that pleasure or happiness is the sole or chief good in life.” A more grounded view of faith is founded on trusting God and relying on the Bible for truth and strength, no matter the circumstances or outcome.

One of the casebook texts in the Bible on faith is Hebrews 12:1-3, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Every good story of faith involves some risk, often including times of hardship. One must also remember the connecting word “therefore” in verse 1, tying closely to the great examples of faith in the previous chapter. Take note of Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” The writer of Hebrews lists both men and women who encountered various challenges in their lives but continued to trust God in those circumstances. The chapter concludes, “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect” (vs. 39-40). What promise was missed? Jesus the Messiah was spoken of in Old Testament prophecies that the “ancients” longed to see. Through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection, God’s “better” plan was unfolded.

Along with the “great cloud of witnesses,” we can also take courage in Jesus as the “author and perfecter” of our faith. Pastor and author Kyle Idleman says we can fall into a couple of tendencies when facing discouragement. One is the sense of feeling sorry for ourselves. Two is dwelling on unfair circumstances. These trappings are common; however, this is why we look to Jesus because He is the source of our faith. Faith involves moving forward; the key is perseverance.

Are you feeling discouraged or weary? If so, don’t lose heart; you’re in good company. We don’t always see the bigger picture that God has planned, but He is always faithful and trustworthy.