Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Prayer Produces Faith

The May 30 devotional from Experiencing God Day by Day speaks to faith that does not depend on miracles from God to be strong. ““A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.”” Matthew 16:6. The writer's point was that we are to trust the God of miracles for His best in our lives. We do not trust Him only when He performs miracles. Just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego said as they were thrown into the fiery furnace, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up” Daniel 3:17-18.


I have found in my life that through the discipline of prayer, my faith is strengthened. As I praise God, my view of Him is expanded. As I thank Him, my gratitude increases. As I confess my sin to Him and repent, I again experience His faithful love and forgiveness. Through the obedience of interceding for others, my heart is softened and my sense of God's sovereignty is reinforced. As I pray for God's work in my life, my will begins to conform to His will.


At times, I do not “feel” like taking the time and concentration to pray. I always find, though that during the process of prayer I am reminded that God does great miracles every moment of every day as He loves, cares, forgives, and guides thousands of lives. My faith is always strengthened by spending time with Him. I do not pray that God will perform a miracle. I pray and realize that He is always performing miracles not only around me, but especially in my life.


Benny Stofer, Worship Pastor

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