July 1

Luke 7:1-10 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

9When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 10And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well. (vv. 9-10)

Observation

This passage is a great illustration of the principle captured in one of my favorite Bible verses found in Hebrews 11:6 which reads, "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."

As we see in our passage, the elders of the Jews who were sent by the centurion argued that Jesus had to help the centurion because of his past accomplishment and contribution to Jewish community. For examples, they mention how he loves the Jewish people and even built their church/synagogue (v.5). Yet, what impresses and moves Jesus is nothing else and nothing less than the faith the centurion had in Jesus evidenced by his words and actions (v7-8).

I sometimes foolishly try to "prove" my worth to God by doing things for God. Yet, all of my doing neither impresses, nor pleases God without my faith in Him. The only thing that matters to God is my genuine faith in Him.

Application

I will guard my heart against the temptation to equate my "good" works with my faith in God.

Prayer

Abba, I thank you and praise you for your continued faithfulness despite my wavering faith in you. Holy Spirit, would you guard my heart from the foolishness of trying to "earn" your love and favor through my works "for" you. Instead, help me find complete rest in your grace and may your abundant grace move me out of my comfort zones to do things that I can't do on my own and thus bring glory to you. It is in Christ name I pray. Amen.

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