Based on “Step out in Faith; Sing out in Thanks” by Pastor Mark Balmer;
1/16-17/10, Message #MB404; Daily Devotional #2 - “Let the Praise Begin”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): Whether we acknowledge it or not, we all live by faith in something. We flip a switch and believe there will be light. We turn on a spigot and believe that water will flow from the faucet. We trust that our cars will start when we turn the key. We have been programmed since childhood to put our faith in tangible things. As Christ followers, we need to be aware of what God says about faith. Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1) Faith is not a passive belief, but an action based on our belief. If we do not flip the switch, we will not see the light. If we do not act on the faith we have in God, we will not see the reality which He wants to show us.
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): The events of 2 Chronicles 20 illustrate the relationship between our faith and God’s provision. A fearful report prompted King Jehoshaphat to gather his nation together to seek the Lord. As he acknowledged God’s power, might, and goodness in delivering the nation in the past, God promised them the battle was His, not theirs. He instructed them to go and face their enemy, stand firm and see the deliverance of God (2 Chronicles 20:17). In faith, King Jehoshaphat set up an incredible battle order, with the praise team out ahead of the army. The very existence of the nation was at stake, and he sent the choir first! A miraculous victory ensued. As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated. (2 Chronicles 20:22 ) Notice the word “as.” As the people began to sing praises for an unseen victory, God sent His provision by causing the enemy to destroy themselves from within. Their praise demonstrated their faith in God, and God showed His provision in destroying the enemy. Have you ever thought of your praise being an active demonstration of your faith?
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): We live in a world that says, “Show me the proof and I will believe.” God tells us differently. God asks us to show Him our faith, and He will show us the proof. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6) Think of the many ways that you can demonstrate your faith in God, then, do them. Remember, good intentions do no good unless they are put into action.
Cultivating (Additional Reading): Psalm 22:3; Psalm 37:4-5
klw
Calvary Chapel of Melbourne; 2955 Minton Road; W. Melbourne, FL 32904; 321-952-9673
All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.