Passage of the Day:
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. 4 By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. 5 By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.”[a] For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him, Hebrews 11:1-6.
Reflection:
Today’s passage comes from the chapter known as the Bible’s Hall of Faith. This initial portion serves as an introduction, necessary qualities for the special recipients of this spiritual club. Although apostle Paul elevates charity, love in action above hope and faith, these 2 theological virtues often go hand in hand. Hope is a byproduct of faith. However, when doubt interrupts this spiritual union, James 1:6-8, hope and faith become a mere word without any substantial meaning. Perhaps, this is what led one first century leader to claim faith without deeds is dead.
Prayerful Action:
But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds, James 2:18.
Cling to a Glimmer of Hope this Fall:
Life is full of cycles where you draw close to God only to slide back into bad habits of selfishness. As a fairly new resident of South Carolina, I was excited to live in an area known as the Bible belt. Yet, being good, kind and nice only take you so far in life. Subsequently, when I was in need following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, only one Christian neighbor put their faith in action, spending an entire afternoon helping me cut down 2 large trees that nearly landed on my roof. The next time you find yourself verbally telling a neighbor that you’ll help out, combine hope with faith so that your actions will demonstrate the love of Jesus in your neighborhood.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
Today’s song is one of the best illustrations of combining hope and faith. When a Christian demonstrates this through their actions, these followers become the hands and feet of Jesus.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 