Today, we're going to talk about something you absolutely need in order to receive your reFRESHment. In fact, without it, it's impossible to please God. (Hebrews 11:6) We're gonna talk about FAITH.
Now before we really dive in, let's define faith. The bible tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1 KJV) I love how the Message Bible says that "faith is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It is our handle on what we can't see." I'm sure many of us have wondered "why do we go through certain things," or "what's the point of all this?" Faith helps us to be okay with the unknown and allows us to trust God, even when our circumstances may frustrate or confuse us.
I want to pose a question: "Where's Your Faith Level?"
When the disciples wondered why they couldn't cast a demon out of a young boy, Jesus simply told them that they didn't have enough faith. (Matthew 17:14-23) If only they had faith the size of a mustard seed...
Do you mind if I "reFRESH" your mind on the size of mustard seed? A mustard seed is just 1 to 2 millimetres in diameter. One of the smallest seeds on Earth! But here's the best part: When a mustard seed is planted, it can grow into a plant up to 9 feet tall! Imagine what can come from sowing into good ground, even from faith the size of tiny mustard seed. I love this quote by Elisabeth Elliot that says, "Don't dig up in doubt what you planted in faith". That tiny bit of faith...what you're believing God to do...don't dig it up! He can do anything we ask or think! Better yet, He can exceed our expectations!
Where's Your Faith Level?
Another encouragement I'd like to share with you is Hebrews Chapter 11, otherwise known as "The Great Hall of Faith". It talks about how Moses, Noah, Enoch, Issac, and so many others held on to faith, even when they couldn't see the promises God made to them. Many of them actually didn't see the promises God made to them come to pass while they were living. But they knew God had more in store for them. For this Earth is our temporary home and there is a greater reward in Heaven. Do you have enough faith to say, "Lord, even if You don't do it here on Earth, I yet trust You,"? Again, I ask you:
Where's Your Faith Level?
After reading Hebrews 11, one of my favorite bible stories came to mind (Thank you, Holy Ghost). This one blesses me every time. Let's take a look at Daniel Chapter 3.
King Nebuchadnezzar had instructed everyone to fall down and worship the gold statue that he created. But there were three Jews who did not comply: Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego. The King basically said, "Look, I'll give you one more chance to get it together. Either you worship this statue or I'm throwing y'all into this fire to burn," I like to think that Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego got a lil' gangster with the King. They let King Nebuchadnezzar know that they didn't need to answer him. (Talk about disrespecting royalty.) They continued to say that if the God they serve exists, then surely He will rescue them from the fire. BUT even if He didn't, they inform the King that they STILL would not serve or worship any other gods. (Hebrews 3:12-18) I encourage you to read the entire chapter, but I just wanted to highlight the faith they had in that moment and how they confronted the situation at hand. They had confidence, despite being told they'd be burned for disobeying the King. And take note at how they respond to the King as well. What are you saying to your situations? Do you believe that God is bigger than anything you may face? Do you have confidence that you'll overcome? Do you have enough faith to say, "Hey God. I'm in a tough spot. But even if I never make it out of this, my faith is still in You. I'm yet trusting in You,"? Again, I ask you:
Where's Your Faith Level?
Never forget that God is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. (Hebrews 13:8) He has the power to do anything He did in the "Bible days". You just need to have faith that He'll move on your behalf. He never changed and He never will!
reFRESHments
After every devotion, we will have "reFRESHments“. This is the time to take what you've read on the post and dive even more into it. This is where I'll drop scriptures, song inspiration(s), and/or call to actions that will carry you through the week until the next devotion.
Read Hebrews 11
Read Daniel 3
Song: If He Did It Before...Same God - Tye Tribbett
Song: They That Wait - Fred Hammond ('reFRESH Theme Song') (Isaiah 40:31)
Call To Action: I've been preaching this here on the blog and I'll say it again: If you do not have one, please purchase a prayer journal. It can just be a regular journal with blank pages or a guided prayer journal. I've found prayer journaling to be so effective in receiving the reFRESHment I need from the Lord and my prayer is that it'll be the same for you. (Feel free to reach out if you'd like me to share with you more about my prayer journaling journey.) This week, I also want you to meditate on these scripture passages and remember the many things that God has done and acknowledge that He can do far more than we could ever ask or think. Whenever you're faced with tough circumstances, remember the God you serve!
May God continue to bless you and keep you!
Peace & Blessings,
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