Study Desk

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

For by it the elders obtained a good report.

By faith Enoch was translated, that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

By faith Abraham, when he was called to remove into a place which he should afterwards receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out not knowing whither he was going.

For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.

For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

But now they desire a better [country], that is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for he hath prepared for them a city.

Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt: for he had respect to the recompense of the reward.

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.

And what shall I say more? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and [of] Barak, and [of] Samson, and [of] Jephthah, [of] David also, and Samuel, and [of] the prophets:

God having provided some better [thing] for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons: for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

For they verily for a few days chastened [us] after their own pleasure; but he for [our] profit, that [we] might be partakers of his holiness.

Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them who are exercised by it.

And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.