Hebrews 11:1-3
Faith is being sure about what we hope for, being convinced about things we do not see. For by this faith, the ancients were commended in Scripture. By faith, we know that the universe was created by God’s word, so that what is seen did not come from visible things.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We live by faith every day. We cannot see the oxygen in the air, but as we breathe, it fills our lungs, and we don’t even think about needing air. Yet that air can be hard to breathe when we face tragedy and loss. Yet, you pick us back up and reassure us you are with us, wanting us to know and trust in you and your love. One can rebuild, and we move on with faith in you.
You created this world out of nothing. We know this because you told us this in your Word. Faith clings to you and all you have told us. If you created this world from nothing, you will be with us to restore it as needed.
When we get lost in sin’s storms, you restore us. Jesus brought forgiveness for our sins by living the perfect life in our place and then willingly going to the cross to take our sins into himself. On the cross, he asked you to forgive us because we didn’t know what we were doing. While that was almost 2000 years ago, we still hold onto the promise of forgiveness, eternal life, and salvation Jesus won for us.
We cannot see the forgiveness there for us, just as we cannot see the oxygen in the air, but both are real and bring us life. Allow us to share our heavenly hope with those who do not know you; as we share your Word with them, create a change in their hearts to believe and be convinced in what they cannot see—your love, mercy, and grace. Forgive them and us, for Jesus’ sake. Also, be with all affected by the recent hurricanes, and let them take comfort and peace knowing you are with them. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
We have faith in many things: the water will run, the lights will come on, and the yellow line will protect us, but sometimes they don’t. However, when the object of your faith is in Jesus, you can be confident in his love and mercy for you; he sustains you, and you are saved by faith in him.