Witnesses of Faith and Our Walk
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,”
That is the opening statement of Hebrews chapter 12 verse 1. To understand the context of the statement you have to go back and read chapter 11 which starts with a definition of faith …
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation.”
From there the writer goes on to list more than 10 by name and many others who By Faith followed God. The list of faithful acts are impressive on the one hand but can be intimidating on the other hand when we look at our own list of actions which were driven more by faith than known influences. From monumental actions to what would seem as minor actions, our actions and the actions of those before us which were based on the unseen are nonetheless a powerful witness of how God, through the Holy Spirit, draws us closer to himself.
As the Scripture denotes, our acts of faith not only benefit us and those directly impacted by those actions, they also serve as an example or witness to others, “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses.” Witnesses of how a faith in Christ Jesus impacts our lives and the lives of those with whom we interact. And, how his sacrifice paved the way for our salvation.
So, what does this mean for us? Here is the rest of the opening statement of chapter 12 verses 1 and 2.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Therefore, we too are to live by faith, to put aside the worries of this world, and by faith live our lives worthy of the calling we have received.
I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. - Ephesians 4:1-3
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God - Philippians 1:9-11
Life is not easy and often times makes no sense. But regardless of what is directly in front of us, we are to keep our eyes on the Lord and by Faith, trust that he will always be with us and will be glorified in every situation. All we have to do is trust and follow his lead can be blessed.
May God’s blessings be upon you as you, through faith, honor him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength so that we too may be witnesses to those who come after us.
