Growing In Faith

We do certain things because of faith – and because of faith we do certain things.  Faith is a state of mind that grows out of our actions, just as it governs our actions.

A father cried out to his young son who was trapped in a burning house: “Jump, son!  I will catch you.”  The boy cried: “But daddy, I can’t see you.”  His father called back: “I know.  But I can see you.”

As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are but dust (Psalm 103:13-14).

Yes, many a time He turned His anger away and did not stir up all His wrath.  For He remembered they were but flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again (Psalm 78:38-40).

Man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work.  This, I see, is from the hand of God, for without God who can eat or find enjoyment? (Ecclesiastes 2:24-25)

No one can understand all the ways of God.  However, by studying the Bible and His creation, we can serve Him and find fulfillment in our work.

But as for me, it is good to be near God.  I have made the sovereign Lord my refuge.  I will tell of all Your deeds (Psalm 73:28).

We develop fortitude by repeatedly being tested and prevailing.  The more tests we pass, the tougher we become.  [+wiser] [+stronger] [+more useful]

Now therefore, O our God, the great and mighty and awesome God who keeps His covenant of love, do not let all this hardship seem trifling in Your eyes (Nehemiah 9:32).

Father, teach us not to minimize our struggles, but teach us to recognize any struggle we have is small in comparison to the Great God we serve.

The game of life is not so much in holding a good hand as in playing a poor hand well. (H. T. Leslie)

But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay and You our Potter.  All we are the work of Your hands (Isaiah 64:8).

Learn to see all that you have as a gift from God, to be used for Him, not for personal gain or pride.

Resist pride.  Focus on Christ.

My very “I” is His image, not my own but on loan.

For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And, having food and clothing, with these we shall be content (1 Timothy 6:7-8).

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am to be content (Philippians 4:11).

Now godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6).

God expects all His people to use their gifts to do His will.  When they do, everyone benefits.

We are to sacrifice not our grains or our animals, but we are to give ourselves to God.  This sacrifice is not an act of atonement, neither is it a sin offering.  The sacrificing of our bodies to God is a thank offering.

For we are the Temple of the living God (2 Corinthians 6:16).

O Light of the World, teach me to stay so close in touch with You that I will be able to accurately reflect Your brightness.