Wednesday, December 14, 2016

25 Days of God Given Gifts ~ Day 14


Day 14
Unwrapping the gift of:

 FAITH

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, 
the pioneer and perfecter of faith. 
Hebrews 12:2a

Hebrews chapter 11 is known as the FAITH chapter in the Bible. It gives us examples of those whose faith founded their belief in a promise from God.

Hebrews 11:1 tells us Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (NIV)

When I think of FAITH, especially during the Christmas season, my thoughts go Jesus' mother Mary, Luke chapter 1 tells of this account. The angel delivered a message to Mary. He told her she was highly favored, would conceive, have a son, and she was to name him Jesus.



Mary faced the ultimate act of FAITH.  Can you imagine being approached by an angel, and then given a message that is beyond comprehension. Oh the thoughts that must have swirled through her mind. Young Mary merely asked:


How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
Luke 1:34

She faced not only public ridicule and shame, but death by stoning.  Mary's FAITH was SO strong, and she trusted her Lord SO completely her response to this news was this:

And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38

In other words, Mary said, let it be to me as you have said.  She accepted what God had given her.  Why? Because she loved her Lord so completely, she believed He knew what was best for her. 1 Corinthians 13:2 tells us faith without love is worthless. Christian faith is motivated by love and trust, just as Mary exemplified. I encourage you to read and study Luke chapter 1 through this Christmas season. There is so much more to this story, found within the pages of God's Word. 




Thank you dear ones. You can find follow this advent series in the following places.

Little Birdie Blessings - Facebook
25 Days God Given Gifts - INSTAGRAM
 
25 Days God Given Gifts - PINTEREST


 

2 comments:

  1. "What a fine howdy do was that?" Yes, the Bible says that! Thank you, Abby, for encouraging us to read for ourselves.

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  2. Wonderful message there Abby - bless you for sharing these wonderful words and art
    Maxine

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