Faith & Perseverance

Now faith is being confident of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Hebrews 11:1

A recent Bible study focused my attention on Hebrews 11, often called the Faith Hall of Fame. Hebrews lists Old Testament characters such as Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and Rahab—individuals who not only believed in God's existence, but who trusted, sought, and obeyed Him (v. 6-8). I marvel at their faith and their perseverance, even when they could not fully understand the extraordinary challenges they faced. Their faith, in turn, challenges mine.

When I committed to honor God with my marriage, I believed He guided my decision and my steps. The temptation to consider a failed marriage as a failing God haunts me. I realized, however, that this temptation, ignores the disordered thinking patterns of a narcissistic spouse. It also denies the narcissist’s free will for seeking or rejecting the power of God. In addition, it disregards the focus of the Hall of Fame passage.

These individuals looked forward in faith to what God would ultimately accomplish through the promised Messiah. I revel in the fulfillment of their faith—salvation through the sacrifice of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. God’s covenant promise that fueled their faith is now a vital part of my story.

As I find my way beyond the unraveling impact of a narcissistic relationship, I embrace a new awareness. My life of faith did not, in fact, fail God. I trusted Him during the disappointments and challenges I faced. This new awareness frees me to eagerly await the great hope of believers today—Jesus Christ’s return!  

Until then, I put aside the temptation to bemoan my challenges. The witness of the Old Testament faithful ones empowers me to "run with perseverance the race marked out for me, fixing my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith" (Heb. 12:2).

Father, thank You for the testimonies of all those who faced challenges yet remained steady in their trust of Your love and grace. Use my life of faith as an encouragement for the generations that come after me. May You be glorified in it each day. In the name of the Most Faithful One, Jesus Christ, I pray, amen.

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