The Righteous Shall Live by Faith

Scripture: Hebrews 10:38 (NIV)

“But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.”

Introduction

In a world full of uncertainty and challenges, we are constantly faced with the choice to live by faith or to rely on our own understanding and strength. The writer of Hebrews calls us to remember that “the righteous will live by faith.” This profound statement, found in Hebrews 10:38, is not just a call to belief, but a call to live out that belief every day, no matter the circumstances.

This verse comes from a context where the early Christians were enduring persecution, trials, and struggles in their faith journey. Some were tempted to shrink back, to turn away from their commitment to Christ. But the writer encourages them—and us—that true righteousness is not found in fear or retreat but in the active, unwavering trust in God’s promises.

1. The Call to Live by Faith

• What Does It Mean to Live by Faith?
  • Living by faith means choosing to trust in God’s promises and His character, even when life is difficult or unclear. It is not a passive belief, but an active lifestyle that reflects the trust we place in God.
• Faith in Action: It means making decisions based on God’s Word, relying on His strength, and waiting for His timing, rather than relying on our own limited understanding or resources (Proverbs 3:5-6).
• Righteous Living: To live by faith is to live righteously—living according to God’s standards, not the world’s standards. It is a life marked by obedience to God, even when we cannot see the outcome.

2. The Righteous Shall Live by Faith

• God’s Definition of Righteousness: The righteousness spoken of here is not about perfection or human effort, but about a right relationship with God. It is through faith in Christ that we are declared righteous (Romans 3:22-24). The righteous are those who place their trust in Christ for salvation and seek to live in accordance with God’s will.
• Faith is the Foundation: The righteous person is not defined by their success or perfection, but by their faith in God. It is through faith that we are justified, sanctified, and empowered to live righteously. Without faith, there is no true righteousness (Romans 1:17).

3. The Danger of Shrinking Back

• The Temptation to Shrink Back: The writer of Hebrews warns against shrinking back—turning away from faith when trials arise. It’s easy to lose confidence in God when faced with difficulties, and many believers in the early church were tempted to retreat in fear or compromise their faith to avoid persecution.
• Fear and Doubt: In times of trial, doubt can creep in, causing us to question God’s goodness and faithfulness. We may be tempted to shrink back, stop trusting, or even give up on our faith altogether.
• The Call to Perseverance: Hebrews 10:36 encourages us to endure and persevere. “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.”

4. God Takes No Pleasure in Those Who Shrink Back

• God’s Heart for Perseverance: The writer of Hebrews tells us that God takes no pleasure in those who shrink back. God desires that His people live by faith, even in the face of adversity. Shrinking back from faith is not in line with God’s heart for His children. He delights when we trust Him completely and walk in obedience, even through difficult circumstances.
• Faith Pleases God: Hebrews 11:6 teaches that “without faith, it is impossible to please God.” When we hold firm to our faith, God is pleased. Faith honors God because it reflects trust in His character, His promises, and His power.

5. The Promise of Reward for Those Who Live by Faith

• God’s Promise to the Faithful: While the temptation to shrink back is real, Hebrews reminds us that those who live by faith will receive the promises of God. The ultimate reward for those who remain faithful is eternal life with Christ (2 Timothy 4:7-8), but even in this life, there are spiritual rewards—peace, joy, strength, and a deeper relationship with God.
• Living with Hope: Our hope in Christ is a steadfast anchor for our souls (Hebrews 6:19). Living by faith means trusting that God will reward us, both in this life and in the life to come.

Conclusion

Hebrews 10:38 calls us to a life of unwavering faith—trusting in God’s promises and living according to His will, no matter the challenges we face. We are reminded that righteousness is not based on our own efforts but on our faith in Christ, and that faith should be our foundation in all circumstances.

Let us hold firmly to our faith, knowing that God takes pleasure in our trust and that He will reward those who persevere. The righteous will live by faith, and the reward is greater than any earthly trial we may face.

Amen.