Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV)

I recently attended the funeral of a man who was a true person of faith, who had seemingly ministered to others his whole life — both in and out of ordained ministry. During his message, the eulogist spoke of the profound impact that this man had had on those around him, and illustrated his points with funny and moving stories of the man's life. Many in the congregation were moved to tears, and I was among them.

As I find so often happens, it was one sentence — one simple sentence — that leapt out at me: "Your faith in Jesus Christ matters." Throughout his entire life, through many struggles, the man whose life we were celebrating had acted from faith. As I reflected, I began to think of how so much of the Christian life — perhaps all of it — begins with faith. Our obedience to God, our reverence for Scripture, our spiritual journey through all its ups and downs … it all begins with faith.

It reminds me of the Great Commandment:

Matthew 22:37-40 – Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (KJV)

Just as all the law and the prophets hang from these two great commandments, so, too, it seems to me that all of Christian life hangs on our faith. Faith in the Baby born in the manger. Faith in the Child who spoke with authority in the temple. Faith in the Preacher who befriended outcasts and healed lepers. Faith in the One who died on the cross. Faith in the Spirit who lives with us still.

Faith.

Today's passage from Romans tells us that in all things — all things, good and bad — God works for the good of those who love Him, those who are called by Him, those who have faith in Him.

Your faith in your Lord Jesus Christ matters!

Prayer: Loving God, thank You for our faith. Thank You for using our faith to lead us, to guide us, to love us, to support us, and when we need it, to rebuke and redirect us. Strengthen our faith, we pray, that we will remain steadfast in our love and commitment to You, through all things. In Jesus' holy and precious name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Scott Williams <svw59@outlook.com>
Madoc, Ontario, Canada
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