INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Any person who suggests that Christianity is simply an easy way to avoid the trials of life speaks as a fool or a liar. In actuality, the Christian life involves an ongoing, outward battle along with a constant inner struggle. Perhaps the greater of the two is the struggle which exists within a believer. Part of the Christian (called the new man) wants to do right, while the other part delights in doing wrong and following the old ways (the old man). Faith in God’s word and God’s plan is a primary means of assuring one’s spiritual success. Today’s passage focuses on the absolute necessity for personal faith within the life of a Christian. The book of Hebrews says, “without faith it is impossible to please him [God].” Hence, the Bible repeatedly states that unbelief displeases God. In fact, faith is so crucial to pleasing God that He devoted an entire Bible chapter pointing to the lives of those who exemplified faith. Since God spent the time, space, and effort to chronicle the faith of those of the past, He surely places no less emphasis on the faith of those living today.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children) David believed God. Read 1 Samuel 17:34-37 [34] And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: [35] And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. [36] Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. [37] David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee.
  See All.... Why did David believe he could kill the giant Goliath? Similar to the example of David, God is well pleased when we believe in Him, His word, and His plan for us.   
• (For everyone) The Lord is not going to add any names to Hebrews chapter 11, but He continues to keep track of those whose lives exemplify a life of faith. Are you concerned with making such a list by living a life of faith?
• Do you desire to live a life pleasing to God? What are you doing in order to achieve this goal? When is the last time you can remember exemplifying a great measure of faith?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

• Ask God to mold you into a person known for strong faith.
• Ask God to open your eyes to the importance of taking Him at His word.

SONG

My Faith Has Found a Resting Place

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