WHAT BARRIERS BLOCK THE WAY TO BELIEF IN JESUS?

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“Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance.” – C.S. Lewis

One cannot be neutral toward Jesus. Followers of Him believe in His absolute divinity. The Son of God became incarnate to pay the price for our sins. He triumphed over all evil and reigns victorious forever. Either we believe in Him or we do not.

To believe means more than intellectual assent that Jesus is God. It means placing our complete faith in Him as our Messiah, Savior, Redeemer… obeying His commands… patterning our lives after Him… trusting Him daily, and for the eternal future.

Faith is the key to breaking through the barriers of unbelief. Our Lord knows each one of us intimately. He knows our true character, our thoughts, our motives. He knows who will choose to accept Him by faith… and who will harden their hearts against Him.

Barriers to belief existed in Jesus’ day as they do in this day and age. Let us explore key biblical characters and see how they choose to respond to the Son of God, the Messiah Himself. Do they break through these barriers and come to believe? Or do they find these barriers insurmountable, choosing to remain in their unbelief?

7 Barriers to Belief in Christ

“Whoever acknowledges Me before others, I will also acknowledge before My Father in heaven.” – Matthew 10:32

1. Fear of Rejection – Societal pressure – Fear that one’s family, friends, co-workers, peers might judge, ridicule, exclude or cease to associate with them

Nicodemus is a respected member of the Sanhedrin. Although a seeker of the truth, he visits Jesus at night to avoid being seen. He dialogues with the Teacher about the need to be born again to enter the kingdom of God. Although changed by this experience, he remains a secret follower, fearing loss of acceptance by his fellow Jews. He never truly breaks the barrier to open belief.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:10

2. Desire for Autonomy – Independent, prefers sovereignty over one’s life – Reluctant to forsake sin or change a sinful lifestyle – Following Jesus may appear too restrictive, too great a commitment.

Zacchaeus is a wealthy, yet unscrupulous chief tax collector. His curiosity prompts Him one day to climb a tree to see the Teacher as He passes by. When Jesus visits his house that evening, Zacchaeus warmly welcomes Him and is transformed by the encounter. His newfound faith breaks the barrier to belief. He agrees to give half his wealth to the poor… and to make amends to anyone he has cheated.

“How long will these people treat Me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in Me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them?” – Numbers 14:11

3. Refusal of Truth – Heart is hardened – Not receptive to the truth when presented – Chooses to ignore, suppress or reject the truth, even with signs and miracles

Judas Iscariot is one of the original twelve apostles. He is notorious for choosing to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. For three years, Judas is eyewitness to Jesus’ teachings, healings, miracles… yet remains unconvinced of His messiahship. He allows the enemy to gain a foothold in his life, influencing the treachery. With a hardened heart, He chooses to remain in unbelief.

“Whoever is not with Me is against Me, and whoever does not gather with Me scatters.” – Matthew 12:30

4. Spiritual Pride – Exhibits superficial piety yet lacks heartfelt belief – Motivated by worldly pursuits of power, wealth, status, instead of love, mercy, empathy

Pharisees are the political and religious sect most often rebuked by Jesus. He calls them hypocrites, false shepherds who lead their flock astray. They relish their social status, prestige and intellectual superiority, showing little godly compassion. Jesus is seen as a blasphemer and a threat to their authority and power. Their evil plot to have Him killed proves they never break the barrier to belief. 

“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” – 1 Peter 1:8

5. Doubt – A questioning attitude that desires answers, demands proof before belief – Intellectually skeptical – Relies on facts instead of faith

Thomas is a devoted apostle who is remembered as the doubting one. After the resurrection, Jesus appears to His own to their amazement. Thomas, not present, refuses to believe in the risen Christ until he can see with his own eyes the nail marks and touch the side that was pierced. Yet, once his demands for proof are satisfied, Thomas declares, “My Lord and my God!” With this proclamation, he proves his faith… breaking the barrier of unbelief. 

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.” – Luke 6:37

6. Judgmental Attitude – Preconceived ideas about people, beliefs – Critical, biased – May have negative experience with religion or the hypocrisy of some Christians

Nathanael is one of the first apostles to follow Jesus. Philip shares the news that he has found the One about whom prophecy has foretold, Jesus of Nazareth. Nathanael responds cynically, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?”. Yet, when Jesus reveals His omniscience in already knowing Nathaneal, the apostle is amazed. His faith breaks the barrier to belief, declaring, “You are the Son of God – the King of Israel!”

“If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:31-32

7. Strong Beliefs – Rigid views on religion not based on truth – Tenacious, unyielding, dogmatic – May question exclusivity of Jesus as the only path to salvation

Paul is first introduced as Saul, a zealous persecutor of followers of The Way. He staunchly believes Jesus to be a threat to his Jewish religion… until he meets the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. This divine encounter revolutionizes his life, breaking the barrier to belief. His faith is rebuilt on the truth of Jesus as the prophesied Messiah. Paul’s new life is proof of the redemptive power of Christ.

†   Eternal Takeaway – Faith breaks through the barriers of unbelief   †

LUKE — A MAN OF EXCEPTIONAL FAITH

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There are archetypal figures in the Bible who lived lives of exemplary faith. The New Testament physician, Luke, is one whose faith shone forth brightly into all the world. He chose to pass along his deep faith to future generations of believers through his writings of both the Book of Luke and the Book of Acts.

†   What does a faithful life look like?

When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth? – Luke 18:8

Luke was faithful in glorifying His Savior throughout his lifetime. His noteworthy kingdom achievement was to put to pen all his knowledge of Jesus and the early church. He is the only Gentile writer of the New Testament. He authored the Gospel of Luke… a detailed summary of Jesus’ life and ministry, His healings and miracles. He penned the action-packed Acts of the Apostles… the beginnings of the early church, including the trials and testing that the apostles faced while spreading the gospel’s good news. Combined, these two books comprise over one-fourth of the New Testament.

Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. – 2 Timothy 4:10-11

Luke’s faithful life had a profound impact on Paul. This apostle described Luke as the beloved physician (Colossians 4:14). Dr. Luke personified the ideal of a doctor. He exemplified a gentle, humble character, a compassionate nature, and a loyal devotion to his patients and to those in his world. He displayed a heart of empathy, coming alongside those in need. Luke staunchly stood by Paul and Jesus’ disciples, offering them much-needed care and encouragement.

I have… been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked. – 2 Corinthians 11:23-25

Luke was clearly a godsend in Paul’s life. This apostle here describes his own numerous trials and sufferings. Having Dr. Luke as a faithful companion and physician must have been invaluable to him in looking after his health and caring for his wounds. Luke accompanied Paul on his second and third missionary journeys. He loyally stayed by the apostle’s side during his prison confinements… keeping him strong, offering companionship, providing comfort and support.

†   What does a faith-filled life look like?

Since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you… so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught. – Luke 1:3-4

Luke’s life was characterized by faith… faith in a Savior he never knew but to whom he was eternally devoted. Although he never met Jesus, he believed in Him wholeheartedly. He trusted the apostles and took careful note of their testimonies. As a physician, Dr. Luke had a keen attention to detail. He diligently and meticulously researched all that he included in his writings. He made sure that all he wrote was accurate.

Luke walked by faith. He lived out his faith by speaking and writing only the truth. As a historian, he based his writings on accounts from those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word (Luke 1:2). No doubt he spent time with Jesus’ followers to hear their experiences firsthand. He must have talked with people whose lives were touched by the Lord to hear their stories. All substantiated the accuracy of his gospel writings.

The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’ – Luke 17:5

Luke wrote extensively about faith… faith through the eyes of his Savior. Jesus often pointed out faith, or lack thereof, when He saw it. He chastened His apostles for their little faith. He commended those who showed great faith. The apostles asked of Jesus what all believers desire… how to grow faith. Faith is a gift from God. Yet faith grows as we yield to the influence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

‘If I only touch His cloak, I will be healed.’

Jesus turned and saw her. ‘Take heart, daughter… your faith has healed you.’

And the woman was healed at that moment. – Matthew 9:21-22

Luke documented many miraculous healings by his Savior… often emphasizing how He healed in response to a person’s faith. The miracles Jesus performed must have amazed Dr. Luke. For although physicians were believed to be anointed by God and vessels of His mercy, medical practices were unsophisticated at that time, with less than stellar results. It follows that his gospel includes more accounts of healings by Jesus than the other gospels.

Luke placed great value on praying in faith. He observed the importance of prayer in his Savior’s life and ministry. Unique to his gospel are teachings and parables by Jesus concerning the value and significance of a faith-filled prayer life. Also found only in his gospel are prayers of faith by Jesus prayed at key times in His life… His baptism, His transfiguration and His crucifixion. Truly, Luke was a man devoted to prayer.

†   Eternal Takeaway – Luke patterned his faithful, faith-filled life after his Savior   †

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Lord… Lead me to live a faithful life, a life that glorifies You. Make my faith shine brightly in this world. Mold me to be other-oriented instead of self-oriented. Shape me to be a humble, loyal, loving encourager. Allow me to come alongside those in need, expressing care and concern, offering comfort and consolation. Lead me to walk by faith, living out a faith-filled life. May my belief in You be authentic and true. Empower me to believe and speak Your truth. Remind me to look to You in faith for my healing. Enable me to be devoted to prayer, praying always with deep faith. For my faith rests in You alone. Amen.

SALVATION IS BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH IN CHRIST ALONE

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Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. – Matthew 3:8 –

In the desert of Judea, John the Baptist begins his mission… to preach the coming of Jesus, the Son of God. John is the prophet prophesied by Isaiah… the voice calling in the wilderness, preparing the way for the coming Messiah (Isaiah 40:3). He is preaching determinedly to the people about repentance. For the One who will usher in the kingdom of heaven is coming. As many confess their sins, John baptizes them in the Jordan River.

When the Jewish leaders approach the gathering, John confronts them. He boldly convicts them of their presumptive belief that their direct lineage from Abraham will guarantee entrance into heaven. For they adamantly believe they are favored by God for eternity as His chosen people. Surely their God would not allow His treasured ones to be lost.

John boldly points out the root of their spiritual pride… their misplaced faith. Faith in heredity rather than faith in God for salvation. Believing to be specially privileged, they boast that their lineage merits righteousness… giving them right-standing before God. As shepherds and teachers of the people, they are thus leading the Jewish nation astray.

Do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. – Matthew 3:9

John looks to the rocky shore of the Jordan River and paints this word picture. God, the Almighty Creator, can create a new nation of people who will have the faith of Abraham… a spiritual nation who will be justified by their faith in God’s Son, Jesus the Messiah, the Redeemer of all mankind.

The promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring — not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. – Romans 4:16

God promised Abraham that through Him all nations on earth would be blessed (Genesis 22:18). Jesus Christ, our Savior, is the source of this promised blessing. Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). He is called the Father of Faith, the father of all who believe.

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. – Romans 3:22-24

Abraham’s faith was in God’s promised, long-awaited Messiah… a promise not yet fulfilled. Our faith is in Jesus, our Redeemer… a promise fulfilled. For salvation is a gift from God, given only by grace through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8).

Those who have faith are children of Abraham. Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. – Galatians 3:7-9

Salvation is the work of the Spirit in receptive hearts. No one merits salvation, as the Jewish leaders believed. One’s lineage does not guarantee a heavenly entrance. For all have sinned and fall short of God’s perfect righteousness.

If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. – Galatians 3:29

All believers are children of Abraham… justified, made righteous by our faith in Christ. Saved by His grace alone, not because of any inherent goodness of our own. Our sins have been exchanged for His perfect righteousness. He has given us right-standing before God. Our eternal destination is heaven… forever living in His holy presence.

As you come to Him, the living Stone — rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him — you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. – 1 Peter 2:4-5

Christ is the Cornerstone upon whom the Jewish leaders stumbled. We are the living stones prophesied by John the Baptist to be God’s spiritual nation, His holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). All who believe are one in faith… united under the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. For He is the Way, the Truth, the Life… the only name under heaven by whom we can be saved (Acts 4:12).

†   Eternal Takeaway:  Believers are children of Abraham, made righteous by faith in Christ   †

WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH THIS NEW DAY BLESSED BY THE LORD?

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Do you awaken each morning with the weight of your world resting heavily upon you? Do all your regrets, disappointments, failures, problems, worries, and dreads oppress and deflate you? –

Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you. – Ephesians 5:14

As believers, we have the privilege of waking up to a new dawn each morning with the light of Christ shining upon us. Our yesterdays are gone. Today is a blessed new day… rich with opportunities, possibilities, wonders. We are refreshed, renewed… ready to face the day with our Lord by our side.

Yet too often, the morning light can quickly change to overcast skies. A dark raincloud appears to hover over just us, with all the promises of God for the day washed away by its raindrops. We allow our cares and woes to take over… leaving us disheartened, dispirited… overwhelmed by the burdens of life.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24

Do you look forward to each new day the Lord has planned and anointed just for you? Remembering the blessings we have in Christ, every new dawn opens up for us…

⇒   A New Start

To you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings. – Malachi 4:2

A new day unfolds before us… a clean slate. A new chapter in our life stories awaits. Our God is ever willing to bless us abundantly. At first light, we lay all our sins and failures at the foot of His throne, asking for His promised forgiveness.

Jesus heals our yesterdays. This day will not be shackled by the days before. We pray for a closer walk with Him. We ask Him to align our lives with His… to not stray from His will. For He promises His abundance to all who walk in His ways… who never fail to seek to honor Him.

⇒   A New Light

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. – Isaiah 60:1

As we awaken from the darkness of our yesterdays, we walk in the light of the Lord. We view life in the radiance of Christ. His eternal love comforts, nurtures, encourages and fortifies us for the day ahead.

Each morning, we lay all our cares and concerns before our Lord… the weight of our world, the burdens that encumber. For He promises to be our Burden Bearer. The darkness that oppressed is illuminated by His light. As our dread of the day lifts off, we sense His serenity and joy filling our hearts.

⇒   A New Outlook

He is like the light of the morning at sunrise of a cloudless dawn, the glistening after the rain on the sprouting grass of the earth. – 2 Samuel 23:4

Every morning, we have the Son shining down upon us. Each day is a fresh, new day… a new beginning… a new chance at life. What opportunities lie ahead when our eyes and hearts are open. We look to the day with anticipation and expectation, keeping our eyes on the Lord instead of ourselves, focusing on what is before us rather than what is behind. Our prayer is to live each day as a blessing from heaven.

⇒   A New Hope

The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. – Matthew 4:16

Jesus is the light that has dawned in our lives. He is our Living Hope. Each new day in His presence, we sense a freshness in the air… a sparkling anticipation of what He has in store for us. We ask to be open to the people He brings our way, offering us chances to be kind, compassionate… showering His love upon parched and needy souls… being the person of Christ in a secular world.

⇒   A New Promise

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday. – Proverbs 4:18

Each break of dawn reveals new opportunities, prospects, adventures. We actively await new experiences, happenings, occasions in our lives. We seek the Lord in expectant faith for breakthroughs. For He will shatter the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron that are keeping us from His perfect will (Isaiah 45:2). He will level our mountains, remove the obstacles from our paths and clear our way for the day that lies ahead.

⇒   A New Power

Your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. – Isaiah 58:8

Jesus is the light of our dawns… our Morning Star. His righteousness conferred on us will carry us through our day. We pray for His power and providence to be our protection. For He will surround us with His holy angels. His peaceful presence will keep us grounded for whatever we may encounter. He will empower us to face the day with confident faith and expectation of His perfect will unfolding in our lives.

⇒   A New Peace

A new day will dawn on us from above because our God is loving and merciful. He will give light to those who live in the dark and in death’s shadow. He will guide us into the way of peace. – Luke 1:78-79

Dawn’s new light brightens the day before us… a day ripe with possibilities. Our faith rests in our merciful God. We pray for receptivity to His divine revelations to guide our choices and decisions. We look to Him for new directions, options, openings that will lead us along His way of peace… the path to His very best, His heavenly plan for our lives.

†   Eternal Takeaway:  Jesus is the light and blessing of every new dawn   †

DO YOU QUESTION YOUR SALVATION?

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→   Are you living in the saving grace of your Redeemer? Does the King of Kings reign in your heart? Or are you perhaps wondering if you belong to Christ… unsure of your eternal destination?

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people.” – Titus 2:11

Salvation begins and ends with God. In His Word, He unravels the mystery surrounding redemption. As we search the Scriptures for His truth, we discover answers to key questions that may be causing uncertainty as to the saving grace of Christ in our lives.

†    Am I truly saved?

“If you declare with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” – Romans 10:9-10

God is the beginning of our salvation. He draws us apart from the world and draw us close to Himself. When we accept His offer of salvation through His Son Jesus, a supernatural miracle occurs. We are reborn from spiritual death to spiritual life in Christ (John 3:3).

In His great mercy, God rescues us from the dominion of darkness and leads us into the kingdom of His beloved Son (Colossians 1:13). All we need do is accept Christ, yield to His saving grace and believe. The inspired words of the apostle Paul tell us that when we proclaim Jesus to be Lord of our lives… and when we believe in our hearts this truth, we will be saved.

Our salvation rests in the promises of God… and in the person and work of Christ. God’s promises never fail. We can trust His ever-faithfulness. Jesus has paid the ultimate price for our salvation with His life. He has bestowed on us His Spirit, sealing us to be forever His. The Holy Spirit in our hearts is a guarantee of the fulfillment of His promise to us of eternal life (2 Corinthians 1:22).   

†    Am I good enough to be saved?

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 3:23-24

Everyone has fallen short of the glory and holiness of God. It matters not how “good” we are. For we are all sinners with a serious need of a Savior. That is why Jesus went to the cross for us… a perfect life given in exchange for our imperfect, sinful ones. His salvation is for all people… yet only effective for those who trust in Him and yield to His reign in their hearts.

Jesus forgives all our sins… past, present and future. We are justified… made righteous in the sight of God. Our Redeemer clothes us in garments of His salvation and robes of His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10). He purifies us and makes us holy before a holy God. The Author of Life rewrites our life stories in line with His perfect, eternal plan.

†    Have I done enough to be saved?

“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

Salvation is offered freely as a gift from God. No one can earn salvation. The grace of Jesus Christ alone saves us… a supernatural work of transformation. He breathes His new Christ-life into us. For He is the Living One. the Savior of our lives.

There is nothing we could ever do to earn our salvation. For it is not what we have done that makes us worthy… but what Christ has done for us to make us worthy. It is not our works that save us… but His completed work on the cross on our behalf. It is not our righteousness that merits salvation… but His righteousness imparted to us (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Salvation may appear too simple. Yet God desires that we accept His free gift of salvation with a thankful and reverent heart. No amount of Christian service, church attendance, tithing can save us. Our good works are not done to earn salvation… but to glorify our Savior and show Him our love (Ephesians 2:10). They are a manifestation of His power at work in our lives.

†    Have I enough faith to be saved?

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” – Matthew 17:20

Salvation is by faith in the living Christ. His sacrifice on the cross satisfied God’s wrath against sin. Jesus took upon Himself the punishment for the sins of the world. He became the complete and absolute atonement for all mankind. Salvation can be found in no one else (Acts 4:12).

Jesus saves us despite the weakness of our faith because faith originates in Him. He empowers us with faith… a bit of His divinity conveyed to us. He is the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). It takes only a spark of faith for Him to kindle a deep, abiding trust in our hearts for Him.

Our faith may ebb and flow… yet Christ is constant, unchanging. It matters not the strength of our faith… but the One in whom our faith rests. It matters not the power of our faith… but the One in whom all power lies.

Jesus offers salvation to all who believe. We need not fear whether we are saved… whether we have the goodness, the works, the faith needed for redemption. For our salvation rests in Jesus… the One who has completed all for us. He eternally abides with us. As we place our faith in His saving grace. we discover peace for our souls for all eternity.

†   Eternal Takeaway – If we have placed our faith in Christ, we are eternally saved   † 

 JESUS INVITES US INTO HIS PERFECT REST NOW AND FOREVER

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“In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, but on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.” – Exodus 31:17 –

Creation is complete. God has spoken the universe into existence, accomplishing His perfect work. He is pleased, declaring it all to be very good (Genesis 1:31). God blesses and makes holy the seventh day (Genesis 2:3) On this day He rests… not from fatigue, for He never grows weary (Isaiah 40:28)… but from the completion of His divine purpose in His consummate, created work.

The Sabbath rest of God is a tranquility beyond imagining. He rests with a serene omnipotence… a quiet omniscience… a calm supremacy. It is with the deepest joy… the most profound peace… the most immersive love. Yet it is not a rest without work. For God holds all creation together (Colossians 1:17). Jesus speaks of His Father as being always at work… His creative work never ceasing (John 5:17).

“After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” – Hebrews 1:3

Salvation is complete. On the third day, Jesus has risen from the dead, conquering death and paying the ransom price for our lives with His perfect life. His work on the cross atones for all the sins of mankind. Jesus rests… not from tiredness, but from accomplishing His ultimate purpose in obedience to the Father. Our Redeemer sits eternally at the right hand of the Almighty in heaven.

Christ’s Sabbath rest is the promised rest of God… the everlasting, unchanging repose stemming from His completed redemptive work carried out once for all (Hebrews 10:10). Yet it is not without work. For Jesus is our High Priest… our Advocate… our Intercessor before the Father. He upholds the universe by His powerful word (Hebrews 1:3).

“There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God… Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said.” – Hebrews 4:9, 3

The apostle Paul here uses the word Sabbath not to describe the holy day but the rest that the people of God experience. As believers, we are invited into this Sabbath rest in Christ. Faith is the way we enter His perfect rest… available to us now by accepting the saving work of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has won for us peace before a holy God (Romans 5:1).

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Mathew 11:28-29

Here on earth, we are offered the choice to welcome Christ’s personal invitation to us… His refreshing rest for our Christian journey. His promise is for the weary and heavy-laden to receive His rest of grace in a world of unrest… His peace in a world of trouble… His light in a world of darkness.

Salvation is by faith alone. Our works do not earn our salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Yet we do not refrain from work and sit idly in Christ’s rest. For we are clay in the hands of the Potter as we trust Him to accomplish His divine purpose in us. Our work for His kingdom continues as we live our lives for His glory. 

“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest… Since the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it.” – Hebrews 4:11, 1

Unbelief is the obstacle to experiencing Christ’s perfect rest. Until we accept His invitation, we wander in a spiritual wilderness. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness because of their hard-hearted unbelief, losing the privilege of entering the Promised Land, God’s rest for them. Unbelief will bar our entrance into God’s “Promised Land” for us.

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” – Psalm 91:1

All believers are promised a future resting eternally in Christ’s presence. The Sabbath rest we experience on earth is but a shadow of the glorious, perfect rest we will one day embrace in heaven. It is God’s rest for His faithful, devoted people… the ones who look to His Son as their Savior… who trust in His accomplished work on their behalf.

Our eternal Sabbath rest will be wondrous and joyful beyond our imagining. It will be our earthly rest in Christ blossomed, perfected and glorified. Yet we will not be idle. We will all be kings and priests, reigning forever with our King of kings (Revelation 5:10, 22:5). We will delight in serving our God for all eternity. What an amazing future awaits!

OUR FAITH RESIDES IN CHRIST, THE ONE WHO HEALS

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Village to village… town to town… crowds follow Jesus as He travels the countryside. His heart of mercy and compassion propels Him to put aside any weariness and reach out to heal all who come to Him. He always takes action to help the suffering.

A man plagued with leprosy kneels before Jesus. For he realizes this Man of miracles is the only One who can heal him of his incurable disease…

“Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”

Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. “I am willing… Be clean!”  Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. – Matthew 8:2-3

Two blind men who have heard of this Healer call out to Jesus as He passes by…

“Have mercy on us, Son of David.”…

“Do you believe that I am able to do this?”

“Yes, Lord.”…

Then He touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you,” and their sight was restored. – Matthew 9:27-30

A woman afflicted with bleeding for twelve years approaches this Man amidst the crowds. For she has heard that He heals the suffering…

“If I only touch His cloak, I will be healed.”

Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter… your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. – Matthew 9:21-22

A centurion comes to Jesus to tell Him of his servant who lies ill…

“Shall I come and heal him?”…

“Lord, I do not deserve to have You come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”…

When Jesus heard this, He was amazed… “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith… Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment. – Matthew 8:7-8, 10, 13

A common thread runs through these biblical events… a thread of belief… belief in the Healer, Jesus Christ. Faith drives each of these individuals to pursue Him. They trust in His miraculous gift of healing. Jesus sees their faith and responds with healing power according to His will.

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” – Isaiah 61:1

Jesus is the complete fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. For He reigns in power and authority over all sickness, disease and infirmity… the evils faced by living in a fallen world. One touch… a miraculous touch from this Man of deep love, compassion and mercy… heals all.

Jesus is our Healer. His healing touch is for us today by His presence in our lives. Yet, like these biblical people of faith, we must believe that He can heal… and ask for His saving help. Jesus hears the prayers of the suffering and acts in accordance with the will of God. It is up to us to believe… it is up to Him to heal. We look with the eyes of faith to this Man of miracles, with a heart of mercy and compassion… and trust that He will do what is best.

“Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?” – Matthew 11:3

John the Baptist is in prison for calling out the sin of the tetrarch Herod’s marriage to his brother’s wife. This prophet hears of the mighty works of Jesus and sends his disciples to inquire if He is indeed the Messiah… the Promised One… the Healer of all. Jesus responds…

“Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.” – Matthew 11:4-5

Jesus here summarizes His earthly mission. His miracles of healing validate His teaching, proving that He is truly the Son of God. Yet His mission is not just one of physical healing, but of spiritual healing as well. He comes to free us from sin and give us life everlasting.

Jesus’ message of good news and hope is for all the world. The “poor” to whom He proclaims the good news are the spiritually poor…all who are lost in sin and in need of a Savior. The message of Jesus is for total healing of body and spirit to all who will come to Him in faith.

Many in the crowd followed Jesus merely for what He could do for them in this life. The same is true today. People miss His message of eternal healing. They seek Him only to ease their pain and discomfort in the present, rather than as the Almighty One who can give them a future of unending life and peace.

Are you looking to Jesus merely for your physical healing… for comfort and freedom from pain in this life? Or do you see Him as your spiritual Healer as well… the One who will heal your sins and the wounds to your soul? Is He your source of eternal life… the One who promises you a life of everlasting peace in His presence?

“For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds.” – Jeremiah 30:17

Jesus is our Healer. He can not only heal our physical wounds but our spiritual wounds as well. He can not only heal physical disease but the spiritual disease of sin… the disease that plagues all mankind. Since Christ alone has conquered death, He is the only One who can give us life everlasting. His presence and power brings eternal healing of body and spirit to all who seek Him in faith.

†   Eternal Takeaway – In Jesus alone, we can experience a healed life… now and forever   †

TRUSTING GOD TO WORK HIS PERFECT WILL IN OUR LIVES

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Are you waiting on the Lord? Do you appear to be in a holding pattern, circling and circling, looking to land where the Lord will bless you? Are the clouds obscuring His will for your life? –

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! – Psalm 27:14

Our Lord is always with us. He is the Pilot of our lives. Clouds of uncertainty may obscure our view. Dense fog may cause us to be anxious. Turbulence can rock our confidence. Lightning and driving rain can raise our fears. Yet God wants us to be courageous.

When we wait on the Lord, He works His perfect will in our lives. He asks us to have courage in our times of waiting, our holding patterns. Courage to carry on. Courage to not lose heart. Courage to hold on to our faith.

We may at times not be aware of God’s presence with us in our times of waiting. Just as a pilot is out of view in the cockpit, God’s divine workings are not always seen. Yet He is ever at work, skillfully navigating our lives. We place our trust in the One who has all under His sovereign control. He promises that He will strengthen our hearts and lead us to a safe landing.

The great test of faith is to wait on God. . . not expecting to push a button and get whatever we want now. – A.W. Tozer

Answers to prayer may be a long time coming. Waiting is difficult. We place our requests, our needs, our plans, our desires before God… yet perhaps hear nothing. His delays can cause us to wonder if He fully understands our situations. Yet He always has a reason, an eternal purpose.

We may be tempted to take the pilot’s seat… pull out of the holding pattern… and take off in a new direction. We may decide to set our own course and navigate our own lives. Yet we are not trained or skilled in the art of flying, nor do we know what weather obstacles lie ahead.

Our Lord navigates our lives with divine precision, setting our course along His strategic and wise route. He knows the turbulence that lies ahead and will see us safely through. He sees the storms that await us in our path and will negotiate around them… or steer us along a route least affected by the storm’s fury. The wind may batter us and the rain may pelt us… yet His hands are upon the controls. He is our Pilot and our faith resides in Him.

Trust in our omniscient God keeps us from giving in to despair as we wait. For He sees our past, our present and our future from His heavenly view. When His answers to prayer do not arrive on our schedule, we do not succumb to doubt and fear. We faithfully keep our requests before Him, knowing that He is sovereignly working to land us safely. We wait on His divine timing, knowing His destination is close, beneath the clouds, and He will lead us there in due time.

The Lord is my portion and my inheritance… Therefore I have hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him. – Lamentations 3:24

The reasons for our waiting times may not always be clear  Perhaps God is using the time in holding patterns to draw us closer to Him. These may be teachable moments when He imparts to us His wisdom. We come to view our situations in a new light… His light of revelation. In His presence, our hearts are quieted, our thoughts are focused, our priorities realigned with His. We learn to wait with an expectant attitude of faith and hope for His answer.

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. – Isaiah 40:31

Times of waiting can be times of renewal. Times to step back from our storms. The Lord will refresh us in His presence and strengthen our resolve to carry on. Just as an eagle bravely soars from His aerie high up on the cliffs, so we set out with our Lord in restored faith and confidence to soar above the storms of our lives.

Waiting can be challenging. Waiting requires courage, faith and hope. Yet we place our requests before the Lord and leave all in His omnipotent hands. Then our faith will not waver as we circle in holding patterns. For His divine plan is well worth the wait. Even when His route ahead is not clear to us, we trust that He knows what is best. He will navigate our course according to His sovereign path and timing as we wait expectantly for His perfect landing.

†   Eternal Takeaway – We trust our heavenly Pilot to answer our prayers in His way and time   †

EMBRACE THE FREEDOM THAT CHRIST WON FOR YOU

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Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. – 2 Corinthians 3:17 –

Freedom in Christ is the joy of all believers… all who are saved by grace alone through faith in Jesus. We have been delivered from the chains of sin and the fear of evil. We are free to become who we were created to be.

⇒  What is this freedom that Christ won for us?

Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. – Romans 8:2

♦  Freedom from the law – The law was given to Moses to serve as a guide for how God’s people were to live. Yet no one could uphold the law completely. A Savior was desperately needed. The Messiah came as prophesied, completely fulfilling the law. Christ’s perfect sacrifice atoned for the sins of all mankind forever. We now no longer live under the law… we live in His grace.

You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. – Romans 6:18

♦  Freedom from bondage to sin – Before Christ, we were captives to sin. Now sin no longer wields control over us for we have been set free. Our almighty Lord has broken our chains of bondage. We no longer need to yield to sin. The Holy Spirit gives us power to resist sin and live for Jesus.

 If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. – John 8:36

♦  Freedom from sin’s penalty – All mankind is deserving of death… for we all fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). Only the One without sin could pay the ransom price to save us. The Lamb of God gave His perfect life in exchange for our lives. He took upon Himself our sins and gave us His righteousness. Death is now a doorway into life eternal with our Savior.

Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. – Romans 6:22

♦  Freedom from God’s judgment – Since our heavenly Father reigns in absolute holiness, He cannot live in the presence of sin. Through Christ, we have been made holy. We no longer live under condemnation for our sins. We no longer fear God’s judgment. For God sees us as He sees His Son… pure, righteous, blameless.

True and absolute freedom is only found in the presence of God. – A.W. Tozer

♦  Freedom from evil – Jesus has rescued us from the power of this present evil age. The Victorious One has already won the war. We are saved from a world ruled by Satan… a world with temptation, deception and evil. We rise above all evil by the power of Christ that dwells in us. As children of God, we shine as lights in a corrupt world (Philippians 2:15).

Christian liberty is freedom from sin, not freedom to sin. – A.W. Tozer

♦  Freedom to live for God – Christ came to set us free. Not as a license to go our own way… to do whatever we please, believing our Lord will forgive us. For that would impose upon His mercy and lead us back into bondage to our selfish desires. Jesus gave us freedom so that by His power we can do what was once impossible… to live rightly, unselfishly, justly. To live as He lived.

Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. – 1 Peter 2:16

♦  Freedom to serve our living Lord – Freedom is a privilege. In thankfulness to the One who gave us new life, we use our freedom to serve Him. To reach out with His love to a lost and needy world. To glorify Him. For our Lord came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). We are to do the same.

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. – Galatians 5:1

Jesus has set us free. In faith, we now choose to walk in newfound freedom. We tap into His love, His grace and His power to live according to His will for us, standing strong against the lures, deceits and temptations of the world. For God’s gracious gift to us, salvation and freedom through His Son, is complete and eternal.

†   Eternal Takeaway – Only in Christ can true freedom be found   †

GOD WRITES A STORY OF LOVE AND REDEMPTION IN OUR LIVES

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What story is God writing for your life? Is His story unfolding as He planned for you? Are you following His journey?

God is the Author of our life stories. He penned an amazing story for each of us before He even breathed life into us. He mapped out each journey with Him from beginning to end. Every story is one of love and redemption. Yet when unexpected plot twists… dramatic chapters…. surprise turns of events happen, we question God’s care and concern for us. Our stories appear to be diverging from His plan.

In the Book of Genesis, Joseph, son of Jacob the patriarch, experiences a life story that seems to be veering off course. It begins as a story of love… and appears destined for a happy ending. Yet there are a number of plot twists and turns along the way that must have tried Joseph’s faith. Throughout his journey, he remains steadfast, loyal, unshaken.

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. – Genesis 50:20

Joseph, the hero of the story, is a man of great faith in Yahweh God. He is Jacob’s long-awaited son from his beloved wife Rachel. As the apple of his father’s eye, he can do no wrong. He is given a coat ornately woven of many colors as an expression of his father’s great love. This marks a turning point in Joseph’s seemingly ideal early life.

Joseph’s ten older brothers enter the scene. Jealousy arises in them because of their father’s favoritism toward this special son. Young Joseph cavalierly stirs the jealous embers by sharing with his brothers his prophetic dreams where they are bowing before him.

The plot thickens. Envy clouds the brothers’ thinking. While out shepherding, a caravan of Ishmaelites pass by. They sell Joseph to the traders who resell him into slavery in Egypt. The brothers hide their betrayal from their father. They instead tell him that his adored son has been killed by a ferocious animal.

The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered… the Lord gave him success in everything he did.  – Genesis 39:2-3

The theme of love and redemption runs throughout this story. God has not forgotten Joseph… and he has not forgotten his God. This young Hebrew has courageous faith that Yahweh will always be with him. And the Lord blesses him in all he does.

Joseph becomes a slave in the home of Potiphar, captain of the guard for Pharaoh. Finding favor in the eyes of Potiphar, Joseph is put in charge of everything his master owns. The blessing of the Lord falls upon the master because of Joseph. Yet the plot twists. Potiphar’s wife enters the scene. When her seductive passes toward the young Hebrew slave are rebuffed, she betrays Joseph… causing him to be thrown into prison.

The Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did. – Genesis 39:23

A recurring theme appears again. The Lord is ever with Joseph, giving him success. He wins the favor of the prison warden and is placed in charge of all the prison’s affairs. By divine inspiration, Joseph interprets the prophetic dreams of his fellow prison mates, the king’s chief cupbearer and the king’s baker. He asks that they remember him with kindness in the future.

The story’s hope rises. The royal cupbearer is released from prison and reinstated. Will Joseph be remembered and set free? All hope is dashed when he is abandoned and forgotten. Two years pass and still his mighty faith in God never wavers.

A surprise turn of events occurs. Pharaoh has two prophetic dreams that no one in Egypt can interpret. Joseph is at last remembered in prison and is asked to interpret the dreams. Inspired by God, he explains the prophecies… Egypt will experience seven years of plenty and seven years of famine.

Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. – Genesis 41:39

Impressed by Joseph’s discernment, Pharaoh places him in charge of all of Egypt to prepare for the times of famine ahead. When the dire times arrive, all the surrounding countries come to Egypt to buy food.

Joseph’s ten older brothers enter the scene once again. Their father Jacob sends them on a journey to Egypt to buy food for the family. Upon meeting Joseph, they do not recognize him as their brother. They all respectfully bow down before him… a fulfillment of his earlier prophetic dreams. He does not initially reveal his identity since he wants to test his brothers. Joseph asks that they bring along Benjamin, his beloved younger brother, with them on their next journey to Egypt.

God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. – Genesis 45:7

When the ten brothers return with Benjamin, Joseph sees that they have had a change of heart. He tells them that he is their long-lost brother. The ten are terrified that Joseph will use his power to retaliate against them for their earlier betrayal. Yet he assures them of his complete forgiveness. He explains that it was God, not his brothers, who sent him to Egypt to prepare the way for their deliverance. Pharaoh invites Joseph’s family to come live in Egypt where the best of the land will be theirs.

In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. – Romans 8:28

Throughout God’s story, His love never changes for Joseph… and Joseph’s love for Yahweh never wavers. How many times in these chains of events might Joseph have been tempted to give up? How many times might he have felt forgotten and abandoned by the Lord? Yet this story has a happy ending. Joseph places his utmost faith in God for deliverance. His Lord works all the evil perpetrated against him for his own good and the good of God’s people.

Are you tempted to give up on God’s story because the plot twists and turns seem more than you can bear? Remember… His story for you, like Joseph’s, is one of love and redemption. As you keep your resolute faith in the divine Author, He will keep your life story on track and lead it to a glorious conclusion. He promises to forever love and redeem, working whatever evil comes against you for your eternal good.

†   Eternal Takeaway – We place our absolute faith in the divine Author of our life stories   †

BY FAITH WE EXPECT AND ACCEPT GOD’S BOUNTIFUL PROVISION

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“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” – Matthew 6:26 –

How benevolent is our Father God. He is our Jehovah Jireh… our Provider. He offers us His abundance. He cares for our every need.

God knows the secrets of our hearts. He knows our needs before we even ask Him. He longs for us to look to Him and trust His love for us. If our compassionate heavenly Father cares so for the birds of the air, how much more does He value us… the ones He created in His own image?

Jesus performed a miracle that portrays our God as Bestower and Blesser. In the Gospel of Matthew, Peter is confronted by the tax collectors as to whether his Teacher pays the annual two-drachma temple tax. He responds that Jesus does in fact pay the required tax. Later, Jesus explains to Peter that, as children of God, they are exempt. Yet since Jesus cares to not offend the authorities, He offers Peter a solution…

“Go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for My tax and yours.” – Matthew 17:27

It took Peter’s act of faith to toss his fishing line into the Sea of Galilee and expect to catch this fish. It took God’s sovereignty over nature to place this coin, the exact amount needed for their taxes, into the mouth of the fish. What an amazing way of providing!

“My God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19

God promises us His abundance. He desires our lives to overflow with His blessings. We can expect our heavenly Father to provide for us out of His bountiful generosity. His completeness becomes our completeness.

It is our act of faith to expect and accept God’s provision. We look to Him, the One who provides… for He is our portion forever. Like Peter, we may just see Him provide in amazing ways.

UPHELD BY THE SPIRIT, WE SOAR THROUGH LIFE IN THE WILL OF GOD

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Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. – Isaiah 40:31 –

Christians are called to soar… to rise above life’s battles and worldly cares. Not in their own strength, but in the power of the Spirit. Not with faith in themselves, but with faith in the Almighty God.

Consider the eagle… Eagles will always choose to soar. When they flap their wings, they expend a tremendous amount of energy. Soaring is aerodynamic and highly efficient. Eagles can soar for miles, conserving their strength and lengthening their flight time.

Our faith is the way we soar. In our Christian journey, we place our trust in the Lord who lifts us above the world. If we find ourselves weary and burdened, perhaps we’re “flapping our wings”, trying to do life apart from God. As we cast our cares upon the Lord, He lifts us above our circumstances.

You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. – Exodus 19:4

Eagles make their homes in high elevations… on mountaintops, tall cliffs and riverside bluffs. They wait patiently in their aerie until the upward rise of a thermal wind appears. A quick leap with outstretched wings… and they glide effortlessly through the air to their destination.

The Holy Spirit is the wind beneath our wings. When we step out in faith, we are caught up in the updraft of the Spirit and carried along in the will of God. What once seemed impossible becomes effortless when given to God. We are freed from the world and we soar through life.

Like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them aloft. – Deuteronomy 32:11

Eagles are devoted, protective parents to their young. Yet they know the critical importance of learning to fly. When the eaglets are ready to fledge, the parents stir the nest, removing its soft lining, thereby making it less comfortable. This encourages the young to test their wings. The parents circle around as the eaglets first attempt flight, ever ready to catch them when they falter.

Our protective God lovingly watches over us. Yet He understands that our faith must grow strong. We must learn to “fly” on our own. He may “stir up” our lives, awakening us from our complacency. For it is in the difficult times when our faith matures. Yet He is always ready to rescue us from danger, ever present to catch us when we fall.

While other birds were taking cover, the eagle was soaring. An eagle would never fight against the storms of life. – Karen Kingsbury

When storms arise, eagles fly fearlessly into the turbulent winds while all other birds seek shelter. They are buoyed by the updrafts and upheld by the wind under their wings. They use the air currents to glide higher and higher until they are flying above the storm.

In Christ, we are more than conquerors. We need not fear the storms that arise. We overcome our fear by faith, rising above the storms of life by the strong presence of the Lord. God will lift us higher and higher, buoyed upward by His mighty power. We come to see the storms from His perspective where they no longer appear threatening.

If we only surrender ourselves utterly to the Lord, and will trust Him perfectly, we shall find our souls ‘mounting up with wings like eagles’ to the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, where earthly annoyances or sorrows have no power to disturb us. – Hannah Whitall Smith

Let us cast aside all fear and take that leap of faith to fly above the storms of life. Let us trust the Lord wholeheartedly. Just like the eagle, we can have utmost faith in our Lord to uphold us and protect us. For He has anointed us to soar.

†   Eternal Takeaway – God calls believers to soar above life’s troubles by His power   †