Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1 NIV
Happy Friday! This morning I’m reflecting on all the ways God has worked in my life this week. I’m suddenly aware of how our faith can be at different levels. When I was younger, I read the Bible and questioned whether the stories were true. I felt something, but my faith was very low. I only had enough faith to want to believe. Later, I accepted Christ. I believed what I read and knew God was working in my life, but I justified actions that were not acceptable. I was like a baby Christian Learning how to walk in faith, still crawling most of the time. Over time, I turned more and more to prayer, but I didn’t see my own faults. I just couldn’t figure out what was wrong in my life. I began studying the Bible more and listening to ministers. I was walking in faith and seeing my faults more clearly. I strived to be better and began taking classes. The more I studied, the more God showed me.
Now, don’t misunderstand me. I’m still growing in faith. If I had to guess, I’d say all Christians are learning at one level or another. We’re not in the same place. So, we must be patient with others and ourselves. As we walk closer with God, we will see and understand more clearly. It is important to study and listen, but also be open to the gifts of the Spirit. This has led me to seeing transformations in certain areas of my life.
Last night I listened to two ministers. One spoke about sins in our bloodline affecting us, and the other spoke about our emotions being a way to feel God. I prayed with the ministers. The Holy Spirit spoke to me with both sermons. How often have I cried and felt someone else’s pain? This is a blessing God has bestowed on me. He allows me to empathize by feeling the pain another person is going through. For years I’ve tried to avoid this blessing, but I realize now it is a gift. Then, I thought of some of the sins in my family bloodline that could have been affecting me. I don’t feel hard hearted or unforgiving about their sin, but I feel free from the burden today. This is a burden I didn’t realize was dragging me down.
How deep is your faith? Are you willing to trust God and grow? What’s holding you back? As you study, and pray, be patient for God’s answers come in His perfect timing. God bless you!
