The story is told of Will Rogers who came to his comedian friend, Eddie Cantor, for advice. Will wanted to make some important changes in his act but was worried about the danger of such changes, explaining that he wasn’t sure if they would work. Eddie Cantor’s response was, “Why not go out on a limb? That’s where the fruit is!” (https://girlfriendsingod.com)
Practicing real faith is not an easy task. It’s daunting and scary and impossible to practice without God’s help. It often feels like going way out on a tree limb when everyone else is still clinging to the trunk. It can feel like jumping off a cliff, knowing God is there, but not being able to see Him.
Faith is a gift from Above and can only be developed by using it. Faith grows the more we exercise it. Faith is the confident assurance that something we cannot see if going to happen. (Hebrews 11:1) Faith is willing to take risks. Faith is willing to listen to the Holy Spirit’s lead even when everyone else thinks what you’re doing is foolish. Faith doesn’t fit into the world’s way of doing business and life. However, the act of faith is extremely precious to God and it is what distinguishes people from the crowd. (Hebrews 11:2)
Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it’s your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of His victory. 1 Peter 1:6-7 MSG
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith. All that is needed is a willing heart and mind. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, David, Rahab, Mary, Esther, Ruth,...and the list goes on an on. All these folks who lived before us, responded to Your call and stepped out in faith. Jesus Himself showed us the perfect way to live life here on earth and how to trust You intimately and fully. This way of life is never dull, never boring. We see glimpses of heaven on earth when we practice growing our faith in You. Words can’t begin to describe what we see, hear, and do when we step out in faith in You! Everything is possible for one who believes. I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief! Mark 9:23-24 Amen.