Hebrews 11: The Commendation of Faith

Scripture Focus:

“For by it the people of old received their commendation.”
— Hebrews 11:2 (ESV)

Reflection:

The ancients weren’t commended for titles, talent, or success—they were commended for one thing: faith. And this faith wasn’t blind. It was deeply relational.

They didn’t merely cling to the Word on paper—they clung to God’s voice.
They didn’t simply believe in doctrine—they believed in a living God who spoke, who led, and who drew near.

They heard Him. They followed Him. And by faith, they saw Him—even if only through the veil of shadows. Moses endured “as seeing Him who is invisible.” Abraham saw “from afar” the day of Christ and rejoiced. These weren’t rule-keepers; they were God-seekers.

The Difference: Religion vs. Relationship

Many today treat Scripture like a rulebook to master rather than a pathway to encounter. But the people of faith in Hebrews 11 didn’t just try not to mess up—they longed for God.

They built altars instead of platforms.
They pursued presence over performance.
They weren’t chasing blessings—they were chasing God Himself.

Their commendation came not because they followed a religious system, but because they walked with God—and they refused to let go even when they couldn’t see the full picture.

Living as One Who Sees the Invisible

We are called to live like them.
To seek the voice behind the verses.
To pursue the Person behind the promise.
To walk with God in such a way that others look at our lives and say, “They see something I can’t see.”

Takeaway:

God isn’t looking for perfection—He’s looking for people who believe Him, hear Him, and follow Him.
People who live as though heaven is real, Jesus is near, and the Spirit is speaking.
That’s what heaven commends.

Don’t just cling to the Word. Cling to His voice.
Don’t just study the shadows. Seek His face.

Prayer:

Lord, I want to be known not just as someone who studied Your Word—but as someone who heard Your voice, who saw You by faith, and who walked with You closely. Let my faith move beyond performance into deep friendship. May I live like those who came before me—eyes fixed on You, ears tuned to You, heart burning for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.