[04/09/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
[This focus was originally sent 04/11/2009 (Edited some.)]
While Jesus was in the tomb, the disciples were not sure what to make of it all. Though Jesus had foretold of His resurrection they still did not understand. Therefore, they found themselves struggling to know what was to happen now! What would become of their expectation regarding the kingdom and the hope Christ had promised? Remember the discussion of the two on the road to Emmaus. (Luke 24:21-24) This was certainly one of their moments for growing in their faith. As things unfolded, they would “remember his words” (Luke 24:8) and they later remembered other things (John 12:16) after Jesus was glorified. Even though they did not understand at the time, Jesus told them things beforehand so that when they came to pass, they would believe with great certainty! (John 13:19 & 14:29) Oh what a precious faith that ultimately empowered them in ministry for their Lord!
Peter encouraged. . .
“(6) In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, (7) so that the tested genuineness of your faith — more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire — may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7 ESV)
Faith! What would we do without it? Not only must we have it in order to please God (Hebrews 11:6), but we must also have it in order to see as we ought and to be properly directed on life’s journey since we “walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) It is not so much that seeing is believing as it is believing is seeing. During the time of Jesus’ walk on earth there were many who saw the signs confirming Him to be the Son of God, but they did not believe, but rather rejected Him. However, those with receptive hearts believed and were able to see as God intended.
Occasions when we struggle with our understanding — as the disciples did — are times for growing in precious faith; a faith that trusts the One Who does have the answers. It is a faith that empowers us to continue pressing on even in the face of opposition and the more challenging the circumstances, the more brilliantly that faith can shine!
Jesus asked, “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8b ESV) May He find us holding onto a precious and steadfast faith. Let us continue to grow in the genuineness of a faith that is far more precious than gold! In this way our life can become a powerful testimony to those around us that Jesus is truly worth placing our steadfast trust in and may therefore “result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen!
Have a great day EXEMPLIFYING SUCH AN ENDURING AND PRECIOUS FAITH!
Carl
