Tricia McNair: Noble Life Ministries

“So don’t throw away that courage of yours, which carries with it such a great reward. For you need to hold out!" [Hebrews 10:32-36 CJB]    The author of the Book of Hebrews writes to the Messianic Community reminding them of the courage they displayed in their past sufferings and struggles. They knew what it was to be publicly disgraced and persecuted, property seized and also to support others who had such experiences.  They had gladly accepted it with joy, because they knew that what they possessed in Christ was the greater reward. He reminded the community that whatever they might now be facing, they would do well to remember those earlier days of getting through it and recalled their steadfastness in the past. He tells them that they stood strong before so don’t throw away the courage they had in the past.  We have faced many difficulties in this country in the last 20 years (i.e., 911,  other deadly viruses, recessions, Boston bombing, etc.)...

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might." [Ephesians 6:1 NASB] Ephesians 6:1 Be strong – The Greek word used here is "Endunamoo" meaning to empower, enable, strengthen. In this verse it translates metaphorically to "strong mind".  During this time of uncertainty and a global pandemic do not become weak minded, afraid, anxious and lack trust. No matter what the circumstances are be strong in your mind and focus on prayer, praise and the Word of God.  As Jesus hung on the cross at Calvary, he said, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me. " His humanity felt what we feel when we go through trials and tribulations. But, the Son of God, knew it was not over and  Resurrection Day would come! It was the power of the Holy Spirit that raised Him from the grave, “ He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it” [Colossians 2:15].   From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the...

Hannah’s Problem: Hannah was married to Elkanah, a direct descendant of Levi (1 Chronicles 6:33-38). One indication of how lawless were the times in which Samuel was born is his father’s bigamous marriages. In those days (though it was never sanctioned by God), a man whose wife was infertile would take a second wife by whom he could bear children. Elkanah had two wives, Penninah, his second wife had many children for Elkanah, but Hannah, the beloved, his first wife was barren. Often Penninah belittled and taunted her, plus the Israelites considered a barren woman to be cursed by God.   However, Hannah’s barrenness did not diminish Elkanah’s love for her. Just as our sins do not diminish the love God, Abba has for us. One day Elkanah gave Hannah a double portion of the sacrificial blessing, because he loved her. Penninah, her rival taunted her and made her feel bad, because ADONAI had kept her from having children. She taunted her so much that she would cry and not eat. Thi...