November 15, 2017 - - II Corinthians 5:7 Faith

For we walk by faith,

not by sight.

II Corinthians 5:7 NKJV

Many things in life require a very long view. Math studies in High School have components that build on one another. Midterm exams will show how much knowledge a student has gained. The third year of High School required the previous two years of instruction along with all the years of elementary school basic math courses in order to give a proper foundation for such advanced studies.

Faith is very much the same. The knowledge a Christian possesses about Jesus Christ is both intellectual and heartfelt certainty fueled by the Spirit over many years. There is no fast-track nor are there short-cuts. Faith grows over years and decades.

There are days when one's head and heart have a razor sharp focus on Jesus and faith is felt. As one matures in faith-filled following Jesus, obeying Him for the long journey of life, there may be times when the deep feelings of joy and assurance are lacking. Do not despair or lose heart. God has not changed. God is faithful and is clothing you with all that is necessary so that your mortal life will be swallowed up with immortality, with the glory of eternal life in Christ.

Make it your aim, this day and every day, to walk in faith and trust that is obedient to Jesus and His commands. On troubled days, reach out to fellow believers for prayer and encouragement. On strong days, be prepared yourself to offer such prayer and encouragement to other such faith pilgrims until that glorious day when our eyes shall behold King Jesus and faith becomes sight in the glory of eternity.

Thank You, Jesus for the promises of Your Word and the Powerful Presence of Your Spirit Who brings the Word to life in believers. Spirit of the Living God sustain the faith of believers in days of sunshine and times of stormy tumult and uncertainty. Remind Your people constantly that whether or not they feel it, the truth is old things and sins and patterns are passing away and the new is here in Christ. To Him, along with the Father and the Spirit, be all praise both now and forever more. Amen.