THE FAITH “HALL OF FAME”

Time and time again, the word of God reveals the vast distinction between the ways of God and those of men, between his thoughts and ours. Hebrews 11 is what is summarized as the ‘faith hall of fame’ because in it, men and women captured through the pages of scripture are highlighted for explicit commendation.

Yet, some names are likely to raise eyebrows hence the preamble ‘God’s ways are not ours. The verse of interest today is

Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

In this list, one that throws a surprise maybe Samson, because his story despite being of strength and deliverance, appears to highlight that of a man who was not careful enough and so lost his way. That seems a clear reason enough for ‘human disqualification’.

While men often emphasize the highs and lows of a person’s journey as isolated events, God looks beyond those single time points. Men may therefore see events, but God is privy to an entire journey. Those we may deem as unqualified or not belonging, could be the very ones God confers greater honour on.

Beloved, don’t be convinced that all momentary lapses in judgment, that result in bad choices trigger an automatic disqualification by God. There are surely consequences, but God’s standards and His criteria for appointment may leave you baffled, sometimes a lot harsher or softer than you may think. That is why He is God.

#sly