Should I go on? There isn’t enough time for me to speak of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. Through faith they fought whole countries and won. They did what was right and received what God had promised. They shut the mouths of lions, put out fierce fires, escaped being killed by the sword. They were weak, but became strong; they were mighty in battle and defeated the armies of foreigners. Through faith women received their dead relatives raised back to life.

Others, refusing to accept freedom, died under torture in order to be raised to a better life. Some were mocked and whipped, and others were put in chains and taken off to prison. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed by the sword. They went around clothed in skins of sheep or goats – poor, persecuted, and mistreated. The world was not good enough for them! They wandered like refugees in the deserts and hills, living in caves and holes in the ground.

What a record all of these have won by their faith! Yet they did not receive what God had promised, because God had decided on an even better plan for us. His purpose was that only in company with us would they be made perfect.

Hebrews 11:32-40

When you are facing distressed times, take out your Bible and recall familiar passages that have strengthened you in the past. Chances are they will strengthen you now, and again in the future. Be encouraged when you find help from promises that you never noticed before. You too can be made strong in your weakness. Sense His strength, and your faith will be renewed. Are you being tested today? Remember, there are many promises in the Bible, God’s treasure chest. Generations have proven them true, and so can you.

God’s promises are treasures waiting to be discovered.

Our Daily Bread – March 27, 2003