Good morning! It is Thursday, November 21st, 2024. What is the definition of faith? Not the academic one that, even when explained, still leaves me wondering what it truly means. Faith can feel ethereal and lofty. However, it’s so crucial that it demands a practical definition. Read on…
Today's Reading:
Matthew 8,9,10
Scripture
“Jesus turned and saw her. ‘Take heart, daughter, he said, “’your faith has healed you.’ And the woman was healed at that moment.” (Matthew 9:22)
Observation
What is faith? It is something that captured Jesus’ attention. Seven verses later, He speaks again to the two blind men who were following Him and shouting. Jesus turned His attention to them and, just before healing them, said: “According to your faith, let it be done to you.”
So, what is this thing called “faith?” Is it some divine source of healing or a magical potion that incites the miraculous?
Application
In each case, faith didn’t stand alone. Faith was the impetus that moved these people to action. It wasn’t a static, dead-end fact. Faith was the driving force that pushed them forward! It is the unquenchable initiative that draws us to the Source. It is the incentive to rise out of a dark place, overcome spiritual lethargy, and conquer ambivalence. Faith is the foundation for action—the motivation to overcome apathy, doubt, and fear.
I’m beginning to understand what James means when he tells us that a faith that does not lead to action is not faith at all. It may be wishful thinking, but it’s only a “wanna-be faith.”
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me about faith—not just an academic kind of faith. I don’t want to live with a “wanna-be” faith that is merely wishful thinking or an illusion of what “could be.” Teach me to have a faith that pleases You, one that captures Your attention, Your healing, and Your pleasure.
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