Lord I Believe Make It So - Devotional
This devotional is created based on Ps John Townley’s message, Lord I Believe Make It So
Day 1: Believing When You Don't Understand
Reading: Luke 1:26-38
Devotional: Mary's response to the angel's extraordinary announcement demonstrates profound faith in the face of the inexplicable. Like Mary, we often encounter situations in our lives that challenge our understanding. God's plans may seem impossible or even frightening from our limited perspective. Yet, Mary's words, "May it be to me as you have said," exemplify the trust we're called to have in God's promises.
Reflect on a time when God asked you to step out in faith without fully understanding the outcome. How did you respond? Consider areas in your life where you might be holding back due to fear or lack of understanding. Ask God for the courage to say, "I believe, Lord. Make it so," even when the path ahead seems unclear.
Day 2: The Power of Obedient Faith
Reading: Hebrews 11:1-6
Devotional: The sermon emphasized that "obedient faith is vital in all of our lives." Hebrews 11 reminds us that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Like the heroes of faith listed in this chapter, we're called to act on our beliefs, even when we can't see the outcome.
Mary's obedience in the face of potential social stigma and personal cost demonstrates the power of faith in action. Consider the areas in your life where God may be calling you to step out in obedient faith. What might be holding you back? Remember, as the angel told Mary, "Nothing is impossible with God." Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen your faith and guide you in taking bold steps of obedience.
Day 3: Surrounded by Faith
Reading: Acts 2:42-47
Devotional: The importance of being in an "environment of faith" was highlighted in the sermon. The early church, as described in Acts, exemplifies such an environment – one of shared belief, encouragement, and miraculous occurrences. Like Mary seeking out Elizabeth, we too need to surround ourselves with fellow believers who can affirm our faith and support us in our spiritual journey.
Reflect on your current faith community. How does it nurture and challenge your faith? If you're not part of such a community, consider steps you can take to connect with other believers. Remember, "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Pray for opportunities to both receive and offer encouragement in your faith walk.
Day 4: Filled with the Spirit
Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20
Devotional: The sermon touched on the transformative power of being filled with the Holy Spirit, linking it to an outpouring of praise and thanksgiving. Paul's instructions in Ephesians echo this, urging believers to be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
Consider your own experience with the Holy Spirit. Have you known times of being filled with a spirit of praise, even in unlikely circumstances? Like the preacher singing while cleaning pig pens, how might the Holy Spirit empower you to maintain an attitude of worship in all situations? Ask God to fill you afresh with His Spirit today, opening your heart to His presence and power.
Day 5: The Cost and Reward of Faith
Reading: Matthew 16:24-27
Devotional: The sermon reminded us that every step of faith comes with a cost, but it's always worth it. Jesus' words in Matthew present this challenge clearly – following Him requires denying ourselves and taking up our cross. Yet, He also promises that those who lose their life for His sake will find it.
Reflect on the costs you've encountered in your faith journey. How have you seen God's faithfulness in those times? Consider any steps of faith God may be asking you to take now. What might be the cost? What might be the reward? Remember Mary's example – her willingness to bear potential shame and hardship led to her being part of God's grand plan of salvation. Pray for courage to embrace both the cost and the reward of following Christ wholeheartedly.