Recently, we went on a short camping and canoe trip with some friends. Some were old friends, some more recent. I think familiar friendships were strengthened, newer friendships grew, and as far as I know, everyone loved it! It was a truly refreshing time of fun, enjoying nature, praising the Lord, and fellowshipping.
I got to thinking (of course): I don't think any of us are exactly alike in belief and practice, but the cord that draws us all together is each striving to live for the glory of God, and the desire to help one another along the way.
And I was challenged afresh to truly believe the Lord. In our church meeting there, it was pointed out that true belief is simply trust. Trusting even with what is very precious to me. Trusting the Lord to keep safe that which I have committed to Him.
If I see the path stretched out straight and clear in front of me, what is to stop me from skipping this time of following the Shepherd and instead run on ahead of Him? If I know everything that is going on or coming up, I have no need to trust. But when I trust absolutely, I do not need to know or see. I only need to follow in faith.
Lord, I believe. Help Thou mine unbelief.
"...I know whom I have believed [or, trusted], and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day."
(II Timothy 1:12)
Amen.
ReplyDeleteOoooo, now that's impressive. I just spent a few hours this morning drafting a sermon on this very topic. :P
ReplyDeleteHmmm. Facebook style commenting - I guess this works - we get the replies emailed to us then. :P
ReplyDeleteI noticed. :P And of course I'll share it. However, (not to act important or anything) it is generally my policy not to release a sermon until after it has been delivered, and I don't know exactly when that will be. :P
"I got to thinking (of course): I don't think any of us are exactly
ReplyDeletealike in belief and practice, but the cord that draws us all together is
each striving to live for the glory of God, and the desire to help one another along the way."
I have realized that too- and it's a wonderful thing to know that
despite our differences in beliefs, we all get along really well!!