In the message “Proving Our Faith” we saw how our faith is revealed and strengthened as we walk through our trials. It’s not surprising that we often discuss the importance of faith, for “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). If we desire to live a life pleasing to God, we must increase our faith and learn what it means to live by faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7
“We live by faith and not by sight.”
The first step of faith is when we recognize our sinful condition, repent of our sin, and believe Jesus died so our sin can be forgiven. This belief in Jesus is not a result of what we see, but a result of faith – and without this first step of faith it is definitely not possible to please God.
But as we continue our walk with Christ, He becomes more and more real. With each new step our eyes are opened a little wider and we are allowed to see a little clearer. The challenges of yesterday which required great faith have become easier to bear…for now we can see! However, the increase of spiritual sight is not the same as an increase of faith.
As our spiritual sight grows, our need for faith in order to walk the same path is actually reduced. Less faith is required when we clearly see; “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). True faith always involves a confidence of the unknown, an assurance of what is unseen. This point is easy to misunderstand so read carefully.
Our Heavenly Father desires to lead us in a life of faith. This means He often draws us into the unknown, for it is only in the unknown that we truly learn to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). And as the unknown becomes known, He will surely call us to take the next step, an even bigger step, and trust Him more.
Where is God calling us today? For some, it’s to take the awesome step required for Salvation through faith in Jesus; “Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 4:7). For some, it’s a step of trust for a burden which right now seems completely unbearable; and for some, it’s a step into a level of service which appears impossible to achieve. Each of these requires a step into the unknown, into a place we cannot see, but each is part of the great adventure of faith!
Though the unknown is sometimes uncomfortable and maybe even a little scary, being guided by God into what we cannot see is the essence of a life of faith – a life which pleases God. Until the day He calls us Home, we must continue to listen, step, and grow; we must continue to live daily by faith.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
**** Reading Plan ****
Feb 24 Leviticus 15:1-16:28; Mark 7:1-23; Psalm 40:11-17; Proverbs 10:13-14
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