December 9: A Faith to Hold Onto at Christmas

Erin Pickering, Adult Ministry Director

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 

This is what the ancients were commended for."

Hebrews 11:1-2, NIV

Many times in my life, I've found myself at a crossroads, facing a choice. I could either take a step of faith, trusting in God's leading, or stand still and do nothing. Trust me; doing nothing means still doing something. It's choosing not to choose. In those moments of hesitation, doubt and fear often crept in, leaving me uncertain and unsettled — the exact opposite of what we see in Hebrews 11:1-2. This passage challenges us to embrace a faith that brings confidence and assurance. This means believing in something with hope and trust, not just in what we see but in the One who sees all.

The men and women who came before us, from Abraham to Moses, lived with this kind of faith. Their trust wasn't in the circumstances or what was visible but in God's unchanging character. Even when they couldn't see the whole picture, they believed in His promises. The "ancients" were commended for this trust; their faith anchored them to God's hope and purpose, showing us that true faith is more than believing when things are certain — it's trusting when they're not.

This Christmas, where in your life is God inviting you to take a step of faith? Are there areas where doubt has replaced trust? Like those who came before us, let's anchor ourselves to God's promises, believing He is faithful, even in the unseen. Take a moment to reflect on one promise of God that strengthens you. Write it down or share it with a friend as a reminder that our faith rests securely in Him, though we may not see everything clearly.

Faith doesn't erase the waiting; it brings confidence in the waiting. Let that confidence lead you closer to Jesus this season. 

---