January 2

‘He went out, not knowing whither he went.’ – Hebrews 11:8

                A professed faith in God is obviously required of the Christian. However, a faith in mere profession should not be confused with a faith in action. It is easy to say, ‘I trust in the Lord.’ It is far more difficult to actively do so.

                I am called to go out, not knowing where God is leading me.  I am to have faith that God will lead me where He intends for me to go. This is where panic sets in for the young Christian. What about control? What about direction? If I do not perceive the direction in which God is leading me, does this mean I am directionless?

                The answer is ‘No’. God does not lead me into the wilderness to die. He provides direction, even if I find the direction imperceptible. My part in the faith equation is centered on ‘going out’ of my beliefs, conceptions, and convictions. My part is to become dependent on   God to provide newness in me, despite my apprehension at the perceived lack of self control.

                The reward for dependence on God is that I become closer to Him through my actions in faith. I can create no more good in this world through the exertion of my own control than God can create through me. My efforts, sans God will invariably fall short.