Living By Faith: When You Feel Tapped Out (Book of Hebrews Chapter 13)
Introduction
The book of Hebrews offers an incredible depth of wisdom for Christians navigating their faith, especially in challenging times. Most Christ followers know about the Hall of Faith in Hebrews Chapter 11, telling of all the great faith masters. Hebrews 13, in particular, serves as both a call to action and a source of comfort for those feeling lost and needing comfort. Hebrews 13 reminds us of the incredible inheritance we have in Christ, the importance of standing firm in our faith, and the confidence we can have in the sufficiency of God's promises.
If you've been struggling with fear, uncertainty, or spiritual misalignment, Hebrews 13 might just be the key to serving your spirit a nice slice of peace and providing a sense of renewal in your walk with God. Read on to explore how this chapter can be a guide through life’s trials and an invitation to step deeper into faith.
What Hebrews 13 Teaches Us About Faith and Fear
One of the most resonant verses in Hebrews 13 is verse 5, where God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” This divine assurance cuts through the noise of fear and doubt that so often creeps into our daily lives. Yet, even when we "know" this truth in our minds, why do our hearts sometimes struggle to live it?
It’s a question many believers ask, especially during seasons of uncertainty. Hebrews 13 pushes us to reflect on the truth of God’s sovereignty and His completed work through Christ. Our struggles don't negate His promises—they highlight our need for complete reliance on Him. I believe Hebrews Chapter 13 is a special faith builder reminding you of just how close Lord God desires to be with you.
Confronting Fear through Faith
Fear has this uncanny ability to infiltrate even the strongest hearts. It’s vital to remember that fear is not from God. His Word says, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6). This isn’t just a poetic sentiment—it’s a call to action against fear.
Faith is the antidote to fear. Just as we practice and grow in trust for human relationships, so too must we actively practice faith in God. When fear arises, combat it by speaking promises over your life, just as Christ used Scripture to counter lies.
Hebrews 13 also reminds us about the presence of spiritual warfare, and fear is one of the enemy's favorite tactics. He aims to dilute your strength, distract your focus, and question your identity as a child of God. But remember this truth—your battle has been won through Christ. You are fighting FROM victory, not FOR it.
Aligning Your Spirit with God’s Promises
Sometimes, our struggles go deeper than surface-level emotions like fear. It feels like a persistent misalignment in our spirit—a barrier between us and the flow of God’s grace. This disconnect can lead us to feel fatigued, distant, or even powerless.
During these times, Hebrews 13 offers a two-fold solution. First, it directs us to live in alignment with God’s principles. This includes contentment (v. 5), hospitality (v. 2), and living lives above reproach (v. 18). These aren't mere rules—they’re spiritual disciplines that realign us to the will and purpose of God. They help us open ourselves to His flow of peace, joy, and power. Living in alignment with the energy source that created all things known in existence and beyond removes the feelings of guilt and shame to move through life easier and feel more empowered.
Second, the chapter reminds us to "fix our eyes on Jesus." When life is overwhelming, recalibrate your focus on the Author and Finisher of your faith. Nothing realigns our spirit as powerfully as gazing upon His finished work on the cross. Focusing on the truth that you are created by and for a great power that walks within you and has blessed you with divine gifts, callings, and missions.
Faith as a Weapon in Spiritual Warfare
Faith isn't just a Christian buzzword—it’s the spiritual currency that activates God’s promises in your life. Hebrews reminds us that "without faith, it is impossible to please God" (Ch. 11). But here’s the key to remember—faith isn't about feelings or perfection. It's about choosing to trust God's word over your circumstances. Faith is an action word. It requires a choice being made perhaps remade all throughout the day. Once the choice is made then activate the actions. Sometimes actions are standing firm and standing still displaying the ultimate in confidence that you know your heavenly Father in Christ Jesus has already won the battle, defeated the enemy foes, and made a victory celebration for you with a special invite to attend.
When fears, doubts, or anxieties creep into your mind, it's not enough to simply wish them away. Speak the truth, which is the Word of God aloud. Declare, say with feeling and certainty that you serve a God who has no rival. Proclaim, say like you mean it and you mean business that the enemy is toothless—he may roar like a lion, but Christ has already stripped him of power. Step into your position as victor and ruler of your inner sanctum that the Lord Christ Jesus died to return to you wrapped up with peace, mercy, and love.
Practical Faith-Building Habits
Affirm God’s Word Daily
Begin your morning by proclaiming Scripture. Speak promises like Hebrews 13:6, Philippians 4:13, and Isaiah 41:10 over your day.
Guard Your Mind Against Lies
Whenever a negative thought arises, challenge it with truth. Ask yourself, “Does this line up with what God says?”
Worship with Intentionality
Worship doesn’t just glorify God—it reinforces the truth you believe while breaking spiritual oppression.
Gather with Other Believers
Surround yourself with a community of faith who will strengthen and encourage your walk.
Trials Are Tests—But They’re Not Your Identity
The trials we experience are part of God’s refining process. Like an elite athlete who trains rigorously for an upcoming competition, we too must be strengthened for the spiritual race set before us. However, it’s important to remember that tests are not punishments—they are divine opportunities for growth and deeper intimacy with God.
Hebrews 13 emphasizes how God uses testing to forge faith into refined gold. But also note this—it’s not the outcome of the test that defines you. You are already victorious, covered in pure white robes, because Christ finished the ultimate test on the cross.
These trials aren’t arbitrary. They’re designed to make you better, not bitter. They’re reminders that God isn’t content with mediocrity in His Kingdom. He’s building a team of victors, not victims. He sifts us through trials in the same way we refine earthly treasures—because His Kingdom is reserved for the very best.
Encouragement for the “Why God?” Moments
If you've been asking, “God, why am I experiencing this?” you're not alone. Hebrews 13 encourages us to trust that God’s plan is infinitely better than our current understanding. There are breakthroughs waiting for those who hold fast in the waiting.
Perhaps God is calling you to a deeper level of faith. Instead of fearing the unknown, see this season as a confirmation of your place in God’s team. He has made you for more—a higher calling, a greater purpose, and unimaginable joy in His presence.
The Final Word
Hebrews 13 serves as a deep well of understanding for Christians navigating fear, uncertainty, or spiritual distance. It teaches us to realign with God's promises, fight spiritual oppression with faith, and view trials as preparation for divine purposes.
If you’re feeling stuck in your faith, take heart in knowing this—God has already written the end of your story, and it is victorious. Spend time in His Word, proclaim His promises, and trust His process.
And one last reminder—no matter how you feel, you are never walking alone. He will never leave you nor forsake you, and His Spirit is with you every step of the way. All you have to do, is take a deep breath from your belly. As you take all that air into your lungs remind yourself that the reason you are able to inhale so deep is because the Lord allows it. Remember how He gave the very first breath to mankind. Hold it in your body counting slow to 5. Release the air slowly. Feel your chest expand wide and sideways. Imagine an opening over your heart and now you can feel air on your heart. Visualize that the air touching your heart is the breath of God. As you hold this image in your mind’s eye just download into Him all that is feeling heavy and leaving you feeling overloaded. Trust that He is listening. Wait in that moment. Be still. Hold it for a good pause. You will get a hit of inspiration, or you’ll feel a sense of calm and ease and maybe both. That sense of peace is the assured answer that the Holy Spirit is awake within you and has heard you. No matter what is going on around you. When God is around, you will feel a peace that surpasses human understanding. You somehow, in some way, just feel like it will all be alright.
