September 26, 2022
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:3-4) NKJV
Throughout the Bible, we read about many men and women of patience. These men and women to whom God made a promise or gave an instruction. None accomplished the task or received the promises in a hurry; some never even saw the fulfillment of what they believed God for, but they continued trusting and believing Him.
When Abraham was seventy-five years old, God told him to leave his homeland and go to a far country. In faith, Abraham obeyed God, took his wife, servants, and livestock, and left.
One of God’s promises to Abraham was that He would make him into a great nation. God also told Abraham that his descendants would number more than the stars in the Heavens. Then He brought him outside and said, “Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be” (Genesis 15:5) NKJV. Abraham was an elderly man already. Galatians 3:6 (NKJV) tells us that Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
Years and years passed after God made these promises to Abraham. Abraham had to walk by faith and believe God even though he didn’t see the results. Abraham learned many lessons as he walked his faith walk. It was vital for him to learn these lessons before God fulfilled His promises to him. Then, when the time was right, God did exactly what He said He would do.
Friends, are we patiently believing, or have we become disheartened and disillusioned? If we have, we must take stock of Abraham’s experience today. Make some time to be alone with God. Repent of our unbelief. Go before Him and ask Him to confirm His Word to us. Then recommit to walking the faith walk with Him. May we not look at our circumstances but look to God. Would you pray with me?
Dear Heavenly Father, I am so aware that I have allowed myself to become discouraged and sidetracked. Please forgive me; please help me to get back on track. I want to live a lifestyle characterized by patient faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Encouraging Words from Charles Swindoll: Patience is a bitter plant that produces sweet fruit.
God Bless you, and have a Blessed Day, Friends <><
Thoughts by Randall Stapleton is a Daily Devotion brought to you by The Bridge - Learn more at https://wearethebridge.org
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