Are you fond of squirrels? From my childhood, I remember the damage that they can do if they get into one's attic, so I've not been particularly fond of the critters! This morning, however, as I sat at my table enjoying a coffee and glancing out my back window, I was actually in awe of a pair of black squirrels in my neighbour's trees. As they chased each other, leaping from tree to tree, I couldn't help but think of the faith that they have! Some of those high branches seemed to me to be unable to hold the weight of a chipmunk, let alone a squirrel! Yet, there they were, scurrying to and fro, jumping from unimaginable heights to fragile-looking twigs!

That made me ponder the witness of my Christian faith. Peter demonstrated his faith by stepping out of the boat and walking on the water, as long as he kept his eyes on the Lord. Faith is often defined as complete trust. As a Christ-follower, my faith, my complete trust in Him alone, is the cornerstone of this personal relationship. Going to the Scriptures is the key to growing in our faith and trusting Jesus. Then, like the squirrels, we'll take leaps of faith, trusting the Lord completely, and in doing so, we'll exhibit the joy of the Lord and please Him!

Especially since March 2019, God has shown Himself to be completely trustworthy! When my husband and I were celebrating our 50th year of marriage on an eastern Caribbean cruise, Bob suffered a fatal heart attack as the ship was entering the first port, San Juan, Puerto Rico. God provided many miracle moments that only He could have orchestrated throughout that challenging time. My faith has grown and deepened as I've come to trust Jesus more. I realized that I have dared to take leaps of faith, sharing God's grace with individuals, as well as speaking to groups (before COVID-19). I encourage you to trust Him, too. He will uphold us with His great love and equip us to take leaps of faith with His help!

Romans 10:17 – So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ. (ESV)

John 7:38 – Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, "Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." (ESV)

When we believe in Jesus with even the smallest amount of trust, the good news is that He will work in and through us. The joy of living our faith will be evident!

Something to consider: How do we trust Him like the squirrels leaping to the next branch or Peter stepping out of the security of the boat towards Jesus in faith? Let each of us seek to know Him more, that we might live out our faith with such joy that others will know that we are His and will want to know Him, too!

Prayer: Dear Father, strengthen our faith as we seek a closer walk with You throughout this new year! Guide us as we move forward. Help us to keep our eyes on You, trusting and listening for Your Word, Your guidance, and Your assurance that You have a plan for each of us. Help us to take leaps of faith for Your sake. Thank You, Lord, that You are with us and will never forsake us. In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

MaryLou Tompkins <bmltompkins@icloud.com>
Lindsay, Ontario, Canada
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