Let Faith Guide Your Step
Daily Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12-14
Daily Focus Passage: Genesis 12
Stepping out in faith is one of the most difficult activities. When we step out in faith, we may take the initial step with complete ignorance of all the dynamics that lie ahead or a knowledge of what lies ahead that seems impossible. When we step out in faith, the step occurs in complete trust in the Lord and demonstrates a trust in the will and strength of the Lord. We must remember that stepping out in faith never exists because of us, but the act declares the glory of the Lord. In Genesis 12, Abraham sets an example of stepping out in faith.
WE MUST HEAR THE COMMAND OF THE LORD
Abraham received a call and promise from the Lord that included a command to be followed in faith. The Lord commanded Abraham to leave his homeland and his family and create a new residence. The command meant that Abraham must abandon all he knew and step into the adventure laid before him under the Lord’s guidance. The ability for Abraham to step out in faith began when he heard the command from the Lord.
Far too often, we become comfortable in life and deaf to the command of the Lord. If we desire to step out in faith and follow the Lord’s leading, we must hear the command of the Lord. When we listen, we hear the directions of the Lord and receive the guidance needed for the adventure that awaits. When we fail to listen to the Lord, we fail to journey in faithfulness. How are you attempting to listen to the Lord to hear his commands?
WE MUST FIND THE PROMISE IN OBEDIENCE
The Lord promised provision and care for Abraham as he followed the directives of the Lord. This promise included receiving a great name, being blessed, and gaining a homeland. The blessing does not mean that everything in life will be easy, but the promise means that a reward waits at the end of the difficult journey. Abraham had to trust that the Lord would follow through on his promises as he stepped out into the future in faith.
Today, we still receive promises from the Lord. He promises provision for those who follow him and journey on the path he directs us to. The presence of a promise provides motivation and something to look forward to. When we hear the commands of the Lord, we can rest in the promises of the Lord as encouragement. How are you trusting in the promises of the Lord?
WE MUST TAKE THE ACTUAL STEP OF FAITH
Abraham heard the directives and the promises of the Lord and followed the commands by taking the actual step of faith. The step included departing just as the Lord commanded him and ignoring the hindrances that could deter him. He overcame the possible delays of internal doubt, personal excuses, wrong focus, a lack of trust, and self-centeredness. He did not allow physical limitations like age to become a deterrent. Instead, he took the step of passing through the unknown lands before him.
We must come to the place of activity today. We must overcome the temptations to delay following the Lord in obedience. We must not allow limitations or thoughts to keep us in disobedience. Instead, we must readily travel through unknown lands for obedience. What unknown lands are you to journey? How can you overcome the temptations that might hinder obedience and take the step of faith?
