Monday, Aug. 25, was observed as National Heroes Day in the Philippines.
It is a day when we pause to remember the bravery of those who sacrificed their lives for our country. Without their courage and sacrifice, we would not enjoy the freedom we have today.
In the Bible, there is also a long list of heroes. Hebrews 11 records them, and we often call it the Hall of Faith.
Just like our national heroes inspire us to love and serve our country, these biblical heroes inspire us to live faithfully and serve God.
What can we learn from these heroes of faith?
First, believe in God’s promise.
Hebrews 11:8–10 says, “Abraham obeyed and went, even when he did not know where he was going.”
In Abraham’s time, leaving one’s homeland was like cutting ties with your security, identity, and inheritance. Yet he followed God’s call, believing in the promise of land, descendants, and blessing.
Like Abraham, we are also called to trust God’s promises in our lives, even if the path is unclear.
As we honor our national heroes, let us also be heroes of faith who live by trusting in God’s Word. A true hero of faith trusts in God’s promises more than his own plans.
Second, endure trials with integrity.
Hebrews 11:24–26 says, “Moses chose to be mistreated with God’s people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.”
Moses could have remained in Pharaoh’s palace and lived in luxury. Instead, he chose the harder road, identifying with the suffering Hebrews, trusting God’s greater plan of deliverance.
True faith does not compromise. It chooses what is right even when it is painful. In our daily lives, integrity is tested in small and big ways. Like Moses, let us not sell our faith for temporary gain but endure trials, knowing that God’s reward is eternal.
Third, live with an eternal perspective.
Hebrews 11:35–40 tells us that our heroes of faith faced jeers, flogging, chains, prison, and even death, yet they looked forward to something better.
Faith is not just about living well; it is also about dying well. The heroes of faith lived their lives with heaven in view. That perspective gave them courage in the face of suffering.
We also face storms, losses, and disappointments. But when we live with eternity in mind, we become unshaken. Our national heroes died for our earthly freedom, but our spiritual heroes remind us of eternal freedom in Christ.
A true hero of faith sees beyond this life into the reward God has prepared. | NWI
