02/05/2024
Fall days can be wonderful, we stand in the rays of the sun and feel their warmth on our faces, yet despite the sun’s warmth the actual temperature is much cooler. It feels like one of the most perfect and comfortable times of the year. But, when we walk into the shade we suddenly feel a chill, and pull our collar up tight around our neck. Only by standing in the direct sunlight can we enjoy the sun’s warmth. Standing in our faith is much the same, and when we step out of it, we also feel the world’s chill setting in once more.
“When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and they cried out in fear. Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter answered him, “command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!””
Matthew 14:26-30 CSB
My devotional reading today touched on this same transition from warm to cool today as it’s author spoke of doubt and fear…
"Doubt and fear are the twin enemies of faith. Sometimes they actually take the place of faith, and although we continue to pray, it is restless, disquieted, uneasy prayer that we offer." – E.M. Bounds
There have been many times in my life when I have been faced with great hardship or uncertainty. When those times come I go to the Lord in prayer, but sometimes the doubt and fear of the moment stands between me and effectively speaking with my Heavenly Father. The chill of the fall shade causes me to shiver and focus on myself and my own hardship.
In times like this we need to pull our collar up around our neck and slip on a warm sweater of faith. In spiritual terms we need to pull the teaching of Jesus up to block the wind and put on the Word of God to warm our bodies. Then, in the comfort and confidence of our faith, we can pray as we should... We will find the assurance of God's promise and feel His presence.
“do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 ESV
I really like the words that Bounds used to describe this moment...
"A simple, confiding faith, living day by day, will drive fear away." – E.M. Bounds
We will find that our faith in the fact that God will answer our prayers will be bolstered by the Word of God which is coupled with the fellowship, and prayers of those we surround ourselves with. Fear and doubt fade when we do this... It is like stepping back into the sunshine on a cool fall day... It is like laying on a sunny hillside blocked from the wind, and it is like relaxing beside a warm fall fire... It is the comfort of trusting in God.
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you. Blessed are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face”
Psalm 89:14-15 ESV
Prayer,
Father, Thank you for the light of your faith that shines upon us, and gives warmth to our souls by the fire it ignites within our hearts. Thank you for stoking the flame of our faithfulness, and for making us to shine out into this dark world, as we become your instruments of rescue which aid the lost in finding their way home to you. Thank you Abba for finding us when we too were lost, and for warming and fortifying our hearts with a bright and comforting faith against the cold breezes of sin, and temptation. Holy, Holy, Holy, are you our God who puts us like a lamp of faith on a hilltop stand for all to see. Hear us as we pray, and worship you; bless us as we feel your presence while basking in your light and grace forevermore. You are our redeemer, the one who has loved and blessed us while we were yet sinners, and you are the light of our lives whose grace has been poured out on us. We praise your name Holy Father, and accept your invitation to dine with you, and walk with you for all eternity… made bright and warm in Christ.
Rich Forbes