What is it about faith...

In Matthew chapter six verses twenty-five through thirty-four, we are exhorted not to worry. What! How is that possible? I have found myself worrying about a lot of things lately. What about my job? Where is the money going to come from? How am I going to do that? When will this get better? When will this be over? What am I supposed to be doing? On and on -- I have been mulling over and over and over again circumstances and situations wondering what it is that I can do to produce the outcome I desire. I have come to realize after re-reading this portion of scripture again that worrying is not my full time job -- it is not even supposed to be a hobby -- I'm not even to give it place in my life.

I know, I know -- it is the Word of God -- it should be simple to listen and obey right? Easier said than done -- but nothing is impossible to those who believe!

The one thing I have found that is impossible is to please God -- without faith that is (Hebrews 11:6). Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Even though the Lord knows what we need before we ask, we still must actually do the asking. There must be action on our part, coupled with our faith, if we expect to experience the result of prayer. I used to think --- I don't need to pray -- God already knows what I need, He can handle it, He is more than able to take care if it -- I don't need to do anything. Boy, could I ever be more wrong. Faith without works is dead.

With this subtle revelation I believe the Lord has been speaking to me to remember all the times He has abundantly provided for all our needs. Looking back over my life, I must honestly say that we have not lacked anything. Really. Of course there have been things I have wanted that haven't materialized yet, but for every one that hasn't there are two which have. And, yes, there have been some really tight times -- but, somehow, we always had enough.

I am blessed, my family is blessed, and I am thankful for the Lord's provisions. My job is to continue to be thankful-- to speak His Word -- to grow my faith by hearing His Word and to trust in Him and believe that as I pray He hears me and answers my petitions that I ask of Him.