FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 12:11: Not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
With a heart full of devotion (“with great earnestness of spirit”) is literally “boiling over in spirit.” In some languages with a heart full of devotion may be “with your whole heart,” while in other languages it would be more appropriate to say: “devote yourself completely to serving the Lord.” 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; Its surface was covered with nettles; Its stone wall was broken down. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest; So shall your poverty come like a prowler, and your need like an armed man. Proverbs 24:30–34
When you look at the potential that God has given to your life, have you used it to serve others and honor Him? Is your life like a beautifully landscaped dwelling place for the purposes of God or is it overgrown with thorns and thistles? Has it sadly become a hang out for Satan and his friends? You will never regret returning to Him.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The true measure of your personal accomplishments is not based on your unused potential, it is based upon finishing each project you began with joy.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:12
Dear Father, may Your Holy Spirit fill me in the fullness of Your love, that I may serve you with an unrelenting passion, until I see you face to face. In Jesus Name, Amen.
1. Newman, B. M., & Nida, E. A. (1973). A handbook on Paul’s letter to the Romans (p. 239). New York: United Bible Societies.
