Notes From the Pastor's Desk
August 9, 2026
Characteristics of Abraham's Faith
Read Heb. 11:8‑19. One of the most admirable characters in the Bible is Abraham. He was not perfect but he believed God and it was counted unto Him for righteousness. As we read this passage in Hebrews we can learn a great deal about His faith in God.
I. His Faith Was An Obedient Faith
See v.8. He was called by God to go out unto a place where he had not been before. What did Abraham do? He went where the Lord told him to go. Real faith is characterized by obedience and co-operation with the plan of God.
II. His Faith Was A Patient Faith
Read vv.9‑10. Abraham was in a strange country but while there he kept on looking for a city. The city sought was not made with human hands but with hands divine.
III. His Faith Was A Reproductive Faith
Consider vv.11‑12. If you recall, Abraham's wife Sarah received strength to conceive seed. She was past age, but God promised a child, so Abraham and Sarah believed God. Afterwards a child was born to the old man and woman. Their faith in God brought about reproduction. If you have real faith it will reproduce itself in other lives.
IV. His Faith Was a Witnessing Faith
Muse over vv. 13‑14. Though they died in the faith and had not received all the promises of God, they embraced those promises and confessed to others they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. By faith they “confessed” they were strangers and pilgrims in this present world. Does the faith you have lead you to be a witness?
V. His Faith Was An Overcoming Faith
Dwell on vv.15‑16. His faith was one that overcame all obstacles. He could have but did not go back to dwell again in his home-land. Instead he looked for the city awaiting him after this life would end for him. Instead of going back, faith kept him moving forward; making him an overcomer.
VI. His Faith Was A Giving Faith
Look at v.17‑18. When his faith was tried, Abraham was willing to give up Issac upon the altar. It was Abraham's only begotten son in which his seed would be called. Abraham was willing to give his son Issac — ready to give his best.
VII. His Faith Was A Trusting Faith
Take into account v.19. Abraham believed God could raise up his son Issac immediately.