This post was last updated on March 5, 2026

Day 359, Year 1

Men of Whom the World Was Not Worthy

“They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented– of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.” (Hebrews 11:37b-38 NKJV)

The above scriptures mean those who had faith were unworthy of this sinful world. That is to say, worldly-minded people find it hard to trust God. This is the conclusion that sums up the relationship between many faith elders and this secular world. Godly people do not enjoy this world, nor are we controlled or dominated by circumstances. This world will only shape sinners who are materialistic and focus on short-term gains. Although being poor or wandering in the mountains or wilderness is not necessarily related to faith in God, these outward hardships, such as poverty or lack of shelter, are common life experiences of those who have faith in God. Compared with worldly people who climb up and earn more, those who trust in God are more likely to move downward socially, including being poor as He leads. We who have faith tend to live a different lifestyle because we always pursue spiritual or stronger faith. We are not in the mood to think and plan how to gain more or be pleasure-seeking. Our faith in God is what this world cannot nurture.

The chapter of Hebrews 11 begins with a discussion of looking beyond the visible world to the invisible Word of God, which shapes the created world. Similarly, the invisible Word of God shapes us as people of faith. Often, our value system is different from the world’s. The phrase “wander about” in the verse seems to refer to God leading them to different places to do His work, such as preaching and helping those in need. We should not be afraid of fatigue, because if we really work for God, our strength will surely be renewed by Him. God can lead us into His mercy through our labors.

These one-and-a-half verses sum up how the elders of faith appear before the world and how they are out of step with it. The word “worthy” in the middle of the verse, in Greek axios, also means “worth as much, or deserve.” Thus, do not be astonished if we feel out of place with others in this unbelieving world. In fact, it may be more desirable for us to get used to this kind of alienation or detachment from this secular world. For if some believers are not willing to accept this kind of incompatibility and want to align with this unbelieving world, they are likely to lose their pure faith and be condemned by God at the end.

Reflection questions:

1) Are you afraid of poverty or wandering around? If you are afraid, how will you rely on the Lord to change your mindset?

2) Are you afraid of being out of step with unbelievers or out of place in various secular groups and communities? Why?