Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). When it comes to being discouraged, one of the things “hoped for” is encouragement. For some, who have slipped from discouragement to despair, “hoped for” hardly seems adequate to describe the longing for encouragement.
This is where faith is vital. In the context of this very well known chapter (Hebrews 11), the faith under discussion is that faith that pleases God (verse 6). This kind of faith is a matter of trusting God to fulfill promises made, even though the fulfillment comes after death. It refers to a life of faith, not a momentary, passing faith.
God promises to be with us, not allowing us to undergo more temptation (including the temptation to surrender to despair) than we are able to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). Trust God to fulfill that promise…no matter what!
Have faith in Him! Remember, He loves you and so do I.
Donnie Bates
