Day 31 - Faith on Earth
Yesterday we looked at the Parable of the Persistent Widow. Jesus concluded the story with an intriguing question. “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?†(Luke 18:8) It’s an important question that Jesus is asking each and every one of us, “Do you believe in Me, Do you trust in Me with all of your heart?†The Bible clearly teaches that “…without faith it is impossible to please Him…†(Hebrews 11:6)
One of the saddest moments in the earthly ministry of Jesus occurred when He returned to His hometown of Nazareth to preach and teach. In Matthew 13:58, the tragic consequence of the people’s unbelief is revealed. “And He did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.†Imagine the heartbreak and disappointment of having Jesus visit your town only to miss out on all His mighty miracles because His own people wouldn’t believe in Him.
How many miracles do we miss in our daily lives because we refuse to believe God?
It’s not a coincidence that Jesus asked this question at the end of a story about persistent praying. Jesus said, “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” (Matt. 21:22) There is a strong connection between prayer and faith. As we bring our petitions to the Lord, it is critical that we pray in a spirit of absolute trust and dependence upon God. When our intercession is characterized by an unwavering trust in Him, our prayers become a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
Today’s Scripture Promise: “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.†(James 1:6—ESV)