13 January

VICTORY THROUGH FAITH AND PERSEVERANCE

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen”

(Hebrews 11:1)

Let’s briefly think of something that can test and stretch our faith.
Have you been married and waited to have a child for one, five, ten or twenty-five years? Thank God for the in vitro fertilization facilities available these days. This was not the case a few decades ago, neither was adoption acceptable in our culture as it is today. Glory be to God!

When Abraham was 75 years old, God called and told him that his offspring would be countless. The promise was fulfilled 25 years later (Genesis 12:1-4; 21:1-7). Abraham believed and trusted God. Though he made mistakes along the line, he made amends as God instructed. That belief (that is, trust and confidence) in God over what seemed unrealistic and very unlikely is faith.

What are you waiting on God for? Surely, He will do what He says He will do, in His own way and time. Don’t give up! Don’t be distracted! Don’t be discouraged! Let your faith be as strong and as elastic as steel. Yes, steel, not rubber! Surprisingly, steel is more elastic than rubber because steel comes back to its original shape faster than rubber when the deforming forces are removed. Of course, we all know that steel is stronger than rubber. Victory comes through faith in God and perseverance.

ACTION:  It is said that the night is usually darkest just before dawn. Do not allow your faith to sag while God’s answer is around the corner.

PRAYER: Father God, I thank you because you will do what you say you will do. Please, give me grace to remain strongly focused on you when the trial is most intense. Amen.