BELIEF IN ACTION
How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight.
Hebrews 11:32-34 (NLT)
Love isn’t a sentiment; it’s an action. There is a big difference between active and passive love. I want to make a case that what drove the action of Hebrews 11 was love. As a guy, I’ve always struggled with the concept of God’s love and showing love. Honestly, it just seemed a little too flowery for me. All we do is sit around and talk about our feelings? That’s what I thought. I realized, though, that love always shows itself. If we love a sports team, we attend the games and take interest. That love drives us to action. If we love a hobby, we study that hobby and then take any moment we can to participate in that hobby. Love drives us to action. If we love our family, we desire to spend time with them. Love drives us to action. If I love Jesus, it will move me to action. I will want to serve. I will want to reach those far from Him. I will want to pray for healing. Here’s the important part: some of you are exhausted. Don’t start with action. Start with love. Take a moment to remember who and what you have in Jesus. Let His joy fill you until it overflows from you. Take a moment just to relax in His presence. Once you realize who you are in Jesus and what you have in Him, it will move you to action. Too many people start with action and hope it leads to love. This leads to exhaustion and burnout.
The point is if I want to do what Jesus did, then I need to first be with Jesus and become like Him. If those two things are right, I’ll always do what Jesus did. I’ll always operate with a faith in action. In being with Jesus, He gives me His heart and courage, and I give Him mine. It’s a great exchange for us! Let the Spirit have His way with you. You never know how He might use you each day. May the love of God propel us into action, not our adrenaline or determination. Let God’s love drive you to action today.
APPLICATION: Look for the small doors God will open for you today.
PRAYER: Ask the Spirit to give you a boldness you’ve never had before. Ask Him to lead and guide you each day in the power of His love. Ask that His love would drive out any fear, worry or doubt.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?