Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Strengthening our faith

Pam Padgett ... teacher

Psalm 48:8 As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.

As I read this, I thought of many accounts we have in the Bible of God working in the lives of His people.  Our faith in God is strengthened as we hear of the ways God has led, provided for, and delivered His people in previous generations. 

In much the same way, our faith in God is strengthened as we see God working in our lives today.  When we share with each other what God has done, and is doing, in our lives today, we see the power of God.  The problems and temptations we face are common to all, and our faith in God is increased as we see Him provide exactly what is needed in each situation, actively working in our lives, leading us in the ways of godliness, just as He has done throughout all generations. 

A little earlier I was reading in Hebrews 3 where we're warned about having an evil heart of unbelief and departing from the living God.  Instead, we're instructed to exhort one another daily.

Hebrews 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

What God is doing in my life becomes even more "real" as I share it, and it is helpful to hear how God is leading and helping others as well.  We are continually reminded and urged to go, and continue in, the ways of God, keep the flesh under control, deal appropriately with thoughts brought from the devil, and allow our lives to be conformed to the word of God.  We see the God working in our lives each day, and this continually strengthens our faith in Him.  And, most importantly, exhorting each other is what God has instructed us to do.
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