March 25th

March 25th  

We have to be diligent in reflecting the cross of Jesus as THE way. Faith is not something that just exists in our minds. It is something that is reflected in our lives.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

It is the evidence of things not seen. If there is no evidence of faith in our lives then do we really have faith? This evidence of faith is what people will notice as different. Our faith is not just something we think about, that makes us feel good about our future or makes us feel safe in the long run. Our faith should be what drives our every move, every decision, every desire. Not that we won’t struggle with earthly desires, but faith should be what motivates us to live for Christ instead of ourselves. -Our faith in Jesus…THE Way…THE Truth…THE Life. Outside of Him really what is there that is worth living for? Oh yes, our family and friends are precious, but they are a gift from God anyway, and He tells us to love them and care for them, but they won’t get us to heaven or peace with God. So really, there is nothing outside of Jesus that is worth devoting our whole being and every decision to for the rest of our lives.

Do we really have faith? Is there evidence in our lives? Or are we just making mud pies in the alley when we could be on vacation at the beach? Let’s decide today where our hope and devotion lies. Let’s determine to walk in faith.

If there is no evidence for faith in our lives then we must ask ourselves why? Do we not understand what that looks like? Do we not realize what that means? Jesus said to do big things we only need a small amount of faith not a dump truck full. So what is the issue? Maybe let’s start basic:

Do you believe that God loves you? Do you believe that Jesus, as the Son of God, died for you to rescue you from sin and death by paying the price for your sin? Do you believe your sins are forgiven? Do you believe that you are going to join Him in Heaven someday?

Ok if you believe those things then nothing in your life should be more important. Whether you are at home, work, or play what you do and say should reflect those beliefs. If you don’t believe those things then it makes sense that you would just live for yourself and do whatever. If you do believe those things then your attitude, actions and life should reflect the gratitude and hope that those things bring. That’s the evidence of faith. One step further…

Do you believe that the Creator of the Universe, Almighty God, has a plan for your life? Do you believe that the Holy Spirit will work through you to bring others to this same faith in Jesus?

This is where the mission comes in to play. If we believe these things then we realize that we were created with a purpose and our goal becomes walking in that purpose. So let’s get the faith blooming from our mind and heart into our lives and then into the lives of others. Let’s be the evidence of a Creator who loves us and wants to rescue those around us!

Faith wasn’t meant to be a treasure hidden away, it was meant to be exercised.

Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God who died and rose for me so that I could be free to live with you. Would you help me to let that grow from a Truth that I believe into a kernel of faith that sprouts in my life. Help me to see everything in me and my life in terms of your sacrifice for me and the salvation that is a result of it. Help me to WALK in faith not just sit around. I want others to see you in my life so that they will be drawn to you. Thank you for your grace and mercy and love and patience with me.