FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 2:28–29: For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Some Jews followed the Law’s regulation outwardly, but their hearts were not right with God. A circumcised heart is one that is “separated” from the world and dedicated to God. The true Jew receives his praise … not from men (as did the Pharisees) but from God, sees people’s inward natures and discerns their hearts. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Therefore the Lord said: “Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths And honor Me with their lips, But have removed their hearts far from Me, And their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men.” Isaiah 29:13
Jesus, please forgive me, for my lips have failed to represent a heart of gratitude towards You. Please cleanse me from my inward sin. Please purify my mind and my mouth and my heart. I need You and the power of Your Holy Spirit reigning and ruling over my life. I want to walk in the Spirit and glorify You. I want to praise you in word and deed. Draw my heart close to You. I want to worship You in Spirit and in truth.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The One who cuts away the fleshly heart prepares a holy dwelling place for Himself.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:6
Dear Father, blessed be the holy place, to be alone with You…in Jesus Name. Amen.
1. Witmer, J. A. (1985). Romans. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
