Day 303

Text: Hebrews 11

"Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings…" Hebrews 11:36

THE ABILITY TO COPE WITH SUFFERING

To accomplish great feats proves the power of faith. However, it is equally true to say that the ability to endure suffering is also a demonstration of faith.

"Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings,
yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned,
they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword.
they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute,
afflicted, tormented."
Hebrews 11:36-37

A terrifying list of suffering

a) Mocking can hurt the emotions and the mind severely.

b) Physical suffering can take a terrible toll on a person.

i) Scourging (being whipped severely)

ii) Chains and imprisonment (time in jail can hurt adversely)

iii) Death through stoning and being sawn asunder, slain by the sword are terrible ways to die.

c) Being made homeless was yet another suffering that was inflicted.

i) Tempted (tested severely)

ii) Wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins (normal clothes were not available and the sufferers had to make do with whatever they could find.

iii) Destitute (all wealth confiscated)

iv) Afflicted, tormented (ingenious ways were invented to afflict and torment people)

WITH FAITH IN GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE

It is difficult to imagine how anyone could endure these sufferings! These things frighten even naturally brave people. How could anyone cope if called upon to suffer in this manner?

The answer lies in the word "faith". The exercise of faith somehow enables a person to find the strength, the courage and the power to endure all kinds of cruelty. We cannot determine what our lot in life may be. Perhaps God has called us to attempt great things for Him. Or perhaps God has called us to endure great suffering. In either case a strong faith is absolutely important to possess!