The Just Shall Live By Faith

It’s real easy for us to say it, but when difficult times come and we’re out of options, the Lord teaches us the practical aspects of this verse. “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith” (Galatians 3:11).

I guess one of the greatest misunderstandings of “living by faith” is that it only applies when we are in the depths of despair, scraping the bottom, or faced with the impossible. But what about normal daily life? Isn’t every day supposed to be a day of living by faith?

Maybe you are like I am. In truth, I’m a coward! I know if I ask God to increase my faith, He may use the severity of a personal trial as His instrument of choice to increase my trust in Him. I realize, from my own experiences in life, that sometimes God will simply need to “take away” in order to cultivate genuine faith in our lives. I don’t wish the hurt, anxiety, and suffering on anyone, but I know God will use these things for His divine purpose and plan for your life.

What can we do besides asking God for more faith? Read the Word. “So then faith cometh

by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). I encourage all of us to meditate on the Holy Scriptures. Hide God’s Word in your heart, beloved. Life choices will become God’s choices as you do.

I have come to realize, however, my greatest faith builder is to simply keep my eyes on Jesus. “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). Are you tempted to do wrong? Look to Jesus for the escape. Are you faced with an important decision? Look to Jesus for the answer. Do you have fears of the future? Look to Jesus for comfort and strength.

Remember, Jesus is “the author and finisher of our faith.” He is not only the beginning and the end, but everything in between.

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Tags: Christian Character, Forrest Wychopen

This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 27th, 2008 at 10:52 am and is filed under Daily Encouragement. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.