FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 11:17–18: And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree, do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Normally a branch of a cultivated olive tree is grafted into a wild olive tree, the opposite of what Paul spoke of here. But he knew that grafting the wild into the cultivated was not the norm (though it was done), for later he said it was “contrary to nature.” To reinforce his warning Paul declared, You do not support the root, but the root supports you. The root of the tree is the source of life and nourishment to all the branches, and Abraham is “the father of all who believe.” So Gentile believers are linked to Abraham; in one sense they owe their salvation to him, not vice versa. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. John 15:6
We should be thankful for the abiding relationship we have as a branch into the Vine. What a joyful and secure place to be. Abiding in Jesus by His wonderful grace, and truth, and love. Pray that your roots go deep into Jesus. Give Him praise, all day.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The most fruitful place to be is to be found abiding in Christ, and resting in His promises.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. Ephesians 2:19
Dear Father, I am so thankful that I am not a stranger to You. In Jesus Name. Amen.
1. Witmer, J. A. (1985). Romans. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
