11/11 Hebrews 11

Maybe in the Great Hereafter I will learn that I am way off base, but I have always been incredulous when I hear a pastor espouse the prosperity gospel.  I don't want to mention any pastor's names or post any videos because I don't want to risk offending either reader of this blog, but there is a prosperity gospel out there that is not supported by scripture as I read it.  In fact, I find in today's reading verses that clearly teach against the blab-it-and-grab-it theology.

Hebrews 11 is often times called the Role Call of Faith.   It lists the faith giants of the Old Testament.  Their faith not only pleased God, but created nations and, some would argue,in the case of Noah, some would argue, even saved the entire human race.  Granted many of these faith giants did have a financially prosperous- Abraham and David are two examples.  However, if faith is all we need to have a prosperous life here on earth, what about Hebrews 11:35-40?

In verses 35-40 some of the Faith Giants were destitute, flogged, sawed in half and lived in caves.  Our worldly position or possessions is not in direct relation to our faith.  I believe Christians must be ever vigilant not to get discouraged or faithless when things don't go the way we have planned- illnesses might not be cured, jobs might not be found, relationships might not be repaired.  These are not a result of our lack of faith.  If faith produced prosperity, why would the Faith Giants mentioned in Hebrews have lived in holes in the ground?

When your faith and prayers are not getting the results you want, check out Isaiah 55:8-9. Our view of the tapestry of life is limited to the here and now. God sees the whole tapestry from beginning to end and will work all things according to His purpose.  Faith in Him and His plan is the faith of giants.

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