Topic: The Author and Finisher of our Faith [Church of God Mission International] Above Only Daily Devotional 29July 2021
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Above Only Devotional
Thursday, July 29, 2021
The Author and Finisher of our Faith
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.
Our entire life as God’s children is based on faith. The Bible reminds us that the just shall live by faith (Heb.10:38). Our faith is our life. The only way we can victoriously live the life of God that we have been given and called to live is by faith. The race that has been set before us is a race of faith and it can only be run by faith. This faith that we have and live by as God’s children is not something that we manufacture or initiate by ourselves. Our faith is given to us by God Himself. “Because of his kindness, you have been saved through trusting Christ. And even trusting is not of yourselves; it too is a gift from God” (Eph.2:8, LB). Apostle Paul said, “I realize how kind God has been to me, and so I tell each of you not to think you are better than you really are. Use good sense and measure yourself by the amount of faith that God has given you” (Rom.12:3, CEV).
Now, this faith that God has given us is centred around Jesus. It depends fully on Jesus and it is built and perfected as we keep our focus on Him. When the Bible references the fact that faith comes by hearing the word of God, the word of God there refers to the gospel of Christ (Rom.10:13-17). It is the gospel of Christ that reveals God’s righteousness to us and causes us to grow from faith to faith (Rom.1:16-17). The Bible reminds us that faith works by love (Gal.5:6). As we focus on the love of God revealed to us through Christ, our faith is energized, activated and matures.
As I celebrate my 78th birthday today, I am deeply grateful to God for His abundant grace that has been evident in my life. I boldly declare that Jesus is the author and finisher of my faith. I have never had cause to regret the placement of my faith in Jesus. You too will never regret placing your faith in Jesus.
Prayer Focus:
Thank God for the faith of Christ that He has given you and receive His grace to keep your focus on Christ. Rejoice with me in Thanksgiving as well.
Bible in One Year Reading Plan
2 Chronicles 24:1-25:28, Romans 12:1-21, Psalm 22:19-31, Proverbs 20:8-10