God
knows our weaknesses, and He gives us strength to trust even when we hesitate.
Yet, I would like to trust without reservations of any type or amount. I would
like to walk in complete conviction and faith in God's faithfulness.
God
blesses us when we place our confidence in His ability, desire and willingness
to work out everything for our good (Romans 8:28; Philippians 2:12-13). He
reminds us to grow where we are planted, like a tree by the river, sending our
roots out into the stream (Jeremiah 17:7).
Yet,
fear often etches away at our grip on the soil supporting us, and this requires
us to intentionally place our faith firmly in the Lord (Psalm 56:3; Proverbs
3:5-6). Knowing that His unfailing love will show us the way to go, we can
sleep peacefully (Psalm 143:8).
Our
greatest test of faith is entrusting all of our circumstances to Him, and not
attempting to work them out in our human effort. Even in times of trouble, God
nourishes our faith, and we bear fruit for His Kingdom (Jeremiah 17:8; Isaiah
43:2).
Fears,
like the waves of the sea, toss us about in doubt and confusion (James 1:6). I
often run to the shelter of God's wings, and I rest in His shadow, because He
is the only refuge and fortress worthy of our trust (Psalm 62:7, 91:1-2).
Living
by faith rather than by what we perceive with our finite human senses, we hear
from God's Spirit for His direction for each moment of our life. This helps us
to commit our thoughts, words and actions to the Lord, and He discloses His
plans to us (Proverbs 16:3; 1 John 5:14; 2 Corinthians 5:7).
Prayer:
Father
God, it is better for us to trust in You more than anyone or anything else
(Psalm 118:8). Thank You for never sleeping, and for always watching out for us
(Psalm 121:3). Help us to trust in You like creation does, because You
consistently care for every creature and blade of grass (Matthew 6:26; Proverbs
29:25). You simply ask for us to rely on Your truth by faith when we call on
You, and You will reveal Your presence to us (Psalm 145:18).
The
hardest part of faith is waiting on Your provision (Psalm 27:14). You are our
help in times of need, and You will never, ever leave or forsake us; so, we can
trust and rely on Your love for us, and not be afraid (Hebrews 13:5-6; 1 John
4:16). You provide for all of our needs, and we have no reason to fear
(Philippians 4:19; Psalm 37:3).
Thought
for the Day:
When
we focus on God each moment, rather than on our troubles, His love and peace
cast out our fear; when we walk in repentance, and fear God instead of
circumstances, we are able to trust, and we find our refuge in Him; then, He
abundantly and continually provide for us.
- Psalm 31:19, 37:5-6; 1 John 3:21-22, 5:15;
Nahum 1:7
