Our Scripture reading today is Hebrews 11:1-3.
Verse 2, "For by it the elders obtained a good report."
No matter what our background includes or does not include, we are where we are today because of our faith. Faith is how the OT and NT believers made it through. There is a common line of faith that unites us. The phrase, "obtained a good report", means they were witnesses of the faithfulness of God. They had a testimony to give.
If you are a follower of Jesus Christ, you have a testimony of faith. In fact, your testimony is unique to you, but common to every one else's testimony. The commonality is found in one word, FAITH. As we open God's Word and read of men and women that endured difficulties it presents a good report of faith. We can also read books about other past believer's who also left behind a good report of faith. These testimonies are an encouragement and challenge to us to leave behind a faithful testimony.
This good report was not in and of themselves, but in their faithful, Heavenly Father. The Word of God framed the world and it can surely meet every need we have today. God is faithful! What is your testimony (good report) of faith?