2 For by it (faith) the elders obtained a good testimony. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. Hebrews 11:2-3 (NKJV)

This is the second devotion in a series on Hebrews 11, based on "Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1.  You can go here to view the first devotion in this series.

The debate over the origin of the World has continued for many years. Many people get excited about this and spend hours and hours in debate.

For the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews, there is no debate. He tells us that it is the faith of the elders that allows them to make a good testimony concerning the Creation.

We know that there are still places in our world where the written word is either not available to all, or is available but the people do not have the knowledge of how to read. In both of these situations there are people who day after day tell the stories of the history of their people. Some have suggested that these narrations, that continue today, are more accurate than the written word that has been copied many times over the years. It is also suggested that those who hear these narrations develop the ability to pass them on word for word.

The Word of God, passed down from generation to generation was heard by the elders and it was that Word that became a basis for their faith.

Since narrations usually begin at the beginning, I would think that each narration began with words very near to what we read in Genesis 1:1-3 -- Mentioning that the world was without shape, void and covered with darkness, "Then God said."

So it is that we read in verse 3 that the writer leaves no room for doubt that the Creation was a result of "And then God said" and nothing else. God’s Word was all that was needed to form the highest mountain, to reach the lowest depth in an ocean. God said, and it was done. Think of the POWER of that Word! God’s Word; what a basis for my faith! THINK OF WHAT THAT POWER CAN DO IN AND WITH MY LIFE.

When we use the Apostle’s Creed -- "I believe in God the father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth." -- do we just say the words or do we confess them as words of our faith?

WE PRAY:  Heavenly Father, Satan seeks to use so many ways and so many people to draw us away from you. May the Holy Spirit always be with us to fill us with your power, your strength and your love that we, like the elders, may stand firm in our faith and without hesitation share our faith with others that they might also seek your Presence in their lives. AMEN

Instead of arguing about faith with others, be it Creation or any other subject, LIVE IT. Yes, you can talk about, discuss, and share words about your Faith as that is a part of living your faith. Remember, God has said, "My ways are not your ways." It does seem a bit foolish to argue about something that is beyond our understanding.