let us hold the hope we avow without wavering (for we can rely on him who gave us the Promise);

It was by faith that Abel offered God a richer sacrifice than Cain did, and thus won from God the record of being 'just,' on the score of what he gave; he died, but by his faith he is speaking to us still.

It was by faith that even Sara got strength to conceive, bearing a son when she was past the age for it ??because she considered she could rely on Him who gave the promise.

It was by faith that Joseph at his end thought about the exodus of the sons of Israel, and gave orders about his own bones.