It was faith that made Abel offer to God a better sacrifice than Cain’s. Through his faith he won God’s approval as a righteous man, because God himself approved of his gifts. By means of his faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.

It was faith that kept Enoch from dying. Instead, he was taken up to God, and nobody could find him, because God had taken him up. The scripture says that before Enouch was taken up, he had pleased God. No one can please God without faith, for whoever comes to God must have faith that God exists and rewards those who seek him.

Hebrews 11:4-6

Should I go on? There isn’t enough time for me to speak of Gideon, Barak, 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.

Hebrews 11:32-34

What does it take for a person to be so burdened for others that he is willing to stay locked up so he can continue to proclaim the gospel? It takes an unwavering faith that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven, and that life without Him leads to a hopeless future. Second, it takes a faith that God is in control and that He can be trusted with our lives when we are not in control at all. Third, it takes a faith that results in action – not just thoughts and words.

True faith produces a life full of actions, not a head full of facts.

Our Daily Bread – September 12, 2002