The Bible has a lot to say about faith. It's kind of a big deal. But, maybe you're like me and wonder from time to time what exactly faith means. Is it a noun, verb or adjective? Is faith catchy like the flu and can I spread it to others? I've often wondered if God can give me faith or if it's something I can produce on my own. There have been times during my own faith-journey when I've learned to relinquish my own rebellious attitude and I choose to surrender to faith itself because it feels like faith is a complex combination of it all.
The writer of Hebrews defines faith this way: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1 NIV) During my lifetime, I have learned to question myself when it comes to my emotions, feelings and previously held convictions because they often get me into trouble and get in the way of making good decisions. I have been 'sure and certain' of a lot of things in my life only to get burned in the end. Maybe faith is not contingent on my past experiences but focuses solely on my future. Could I have faith in God that allows me to be open to future positive outcomes and is not tied to negative events or activities of my past?
This weekend we will hear the final message of our generosity series 24/7/365. We will celebrate our faith as we make commitments to God about our financial giving. Each of us will have an opportunity to fill out a card with an amount on it that represents what we will give in the future to Wheatland and the vast mission and ministries we lead.
I pray you will discover the great faith stories written down for us to explore in Hebrews 11. The people mentioned in this chapter of the Bible are considered biblical heavyweights with good reason. They were commended for their faith. They believed that God would prepare and deliver a better future for them. None of them received what had been promised. You and I can receive what was promised to them through our faith in Jesus Christ. What better future can any of us dream or imagine that God hasn't already placed in the hearts of those who believe? Come and see what The Lord has done and what he will do by faith. Magnificent. Beautiful. Faithful. God.
Giving By Faith