Faith Is Not a Bridge Over Troubled Waters, But a Pathway Through Them (Reflections from Hebrews 11 & 12)
Faith. It’s not just a nice word we throw around. It is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of what we cannot yet see.
Through faith, we understand that the world was framed by the word of God. That means words hold power. Our words matter. We create with our words, whether we realize it or not.
But here’s a key truth:
Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
Because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.
Let’s pause on that. Faith isn’t just belief; it’s trust in God’s goodness and His character. He is a rewarder to those who believe and trust in his word and promise.
Some Examples of Faith in Action
- Noah, who by faith, built the ark to save his family.
- Abraham, who left his home by faith, simply because God said so.
- Later, he was tested again—offering up Isaac, the very child of promise.
These aren’t just stories. They are real people who walked through life with faith, trusting God one step at a time.
Faith is not a bridge over troubled waters, it’s a pathway through them. Share on X
Sometimes, God delivers us from trouble. Other times, He strengthens us to go through it. Either way, faith remains.
The Spectrum of Faith Journeys
Hebrews 11 gives a wide spectrum of experiences:
- Some escaped the sword.
- Some shut the mouths of lions.
- Some were healed from weakness, raised the dead, chased away armies.
But others? they were mocked, tortured, imprisoned, stoned, even left destitute.
This chapter reminds us that faith doesn’t guarantee comfort. It guarantees God’s presence through the highs and the lows. With discernment, the Holy Spirit guides us through all circumstances.
No one’s faith journey was more important than another’s.
God worked through each one.
In Hebrews 12 we are taught about The Endurance of Faith
Life is a race, and we are called to run it with endurance.
To do that, we must drop every weight, especially sin, that so easily entangles us.
“Let us run with endurance the race set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.”
Just like runners don’t fix their eyes on other competitors but on the finish line, we are to keep our eyes on Jesus.
God’s Love Comes With Discipline
Hebrews 12 teaches us about discipline. Not as punishment, but as proof of love.
There are three types:
- Chastening – to instruct.
- Rebuke – verbal correction.
- Scourging – physical discipline (with wisdom and care).
“God disciplines those He loves.”
As parents, we’re encouraged to use wisdom and discernment, deploying the right type of discipline at the right time.
Let’s not despise discipline. It’s a sign that we’re sons and daughters, not strangers.
Final Reflection
Being able to walk through life’s storms with God is what faith offers us.
It doesn’t always remove the hardship, but it gives us a pathway through, with prayer, worship, and trust that God comes through.
So whether your story looks like Noah, Abraham, or the unnamed ones who suffered quietly, remember:
Your faith matters.
Your race is worth running.
And God is with you.
Read Also: Children Can Learn About Faith