Loving God, please bring your blessings upon this person who reads this devotional. I know their heart yearns for You and for Your guidance and blessing in whatever they face today. In the powerful name of Jesus I pray, amen.
Hebrews 11 shares the stories of those whose faith was overhauled. They were not content to stay where they found themselves in their walk or lack thereof, with God. Verses 1 through 7 shares just some of a multitude who have asked of God, "God, increase or renew my faith!"
Hebrews 11:1-7: Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain's. Through this he received approval as righteous, God himself giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks. 5 By faith Enoch was taken so that he did not experience death; and "he was not found, because God had taken him." For it was attested before he was taken away that "he had pleased God." 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. 7 By faith Noah, warned by God about events as yet unseen, respected the warning and built an ark to save his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir to the righteousness that is in accordance with faith."
Look at that list: Abel offered to God what he knew God merited, not what Abel thought was best for Abel. This can only come through an "overhauled" faith. Enoch sought always to please God, not himself nor others, and because of that and because Enoch "walked with God" he did not experience death. And Noah, because of his faith in God was warned by God about that which was coming so that he might be prepared. And the list goes on and on and I suggest you read the entire chapter at your leisure. Could you add your name to that list? Of course, through a new, revitalized faith.
The pressures and worries of this time, the economy, the upcoming elections, relationships, illnesses, etc. can only be addressed with a faith that endures. God stands ready to share that with you, if you would only ask.
PRAYER: Loving God, increase my faith and increase my daily walk with You. You know my heart and the worries that have troubled me, but I trust in You and I know You will bless me. May I be a blessing to others. I ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
e.v.
