In this chapter we read of the great faith of past followers of God. The verse that always hits me is found in the portion describing a man named Enoch. "He had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (11:5b-6)
So how's your faith? How's mine? Are we pleasing to the all-sufficient, all-powerful God of the universe? Without faith it is impossible to please Him.
Yesterday I walked through the Ephesians 6 passage which ended with the phrase, "above all, taking the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." (6:16) Things will come our way--life will happen--but if we walk these days in faith then we will be covered in peace amidst the battle.
I have noticed something in my own walk with God. First, we must have faith in His written Word--believing what He promises; and our actions will reveal our beliefs. For example, He says that we are no longer slaves to sin--we have a choice in Christ. So do our actions show us to be victims or victors? He says that love covers a multitude of sins. So do our actions show us to be loving or judging? Our actions will reveal our internal belief.
Second, as we begin to go deeper with the Lord, having faith in His written Word and a growing intimacy with Him, He will impress upon His children a direction to go. He may give you a vision for something that seems impossible or outlandish, but in Him the miraculous is common. In those things, to the glory of His name, we must believe that He will accomplish what He has declared. It might not be today or tomorrow or this year, but if He has said it, then it will come to pass. Believe and trust.
Our God is able. He is. Whatever you are facing, He is bigger. Whatever has you discouraged, He is greater. This God who has graciously redeemed, desires intimate relationship with you and me. Praise You, Lord! He can give us victory when defeat seems imminent. He is God and He is worthy of our faith.
So how's your faith today? Stand on His promises in spite of your feelings. He will bring it to pass.
For further nourishment: Hebrews 11
No comments:
Post a Comment