The Best of the Portals of Prayer

Read: Hebrews 11:1-6

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for.”
Hebrews 11:1

By Faith

People in the Western hemisphere celebrate the discovery of America. By coming to this new land, Columbus touched off a series of changes in world history. Columbus believed he was sailing to a rich land. But the problems aboard ship nearly disrupted His plans. Discourage sailors were at the point of mutiny. Faith was restored as they sighted and picked up green leaves and branches of trees that floated toward them. Reassured, Columbus sailed on in confidence to the Bahama’s. This is an illustration of the Christian faith. “Now is the assurance of things hoped for, for the conviction of things not seen.”
We hope for the glory of heaven. We are certain if redeeming love through Christ. We are confident that a man in some way, all things work together for our good. We know the God forgives our guilt through the completed work of Jesus.
Yet our faith weakens when we fail to see His helping hand. Troubles discourage us. Burdens over-load our thoughts. Our lack of trust wants to lead us to a rebellious mutiny against God. Here, God reassures us. As leaves floating on the sea strengthened Columbus, so evidence of God’s love comes to us. He answers a need through His Word. He provides as unexpected solution to a problem. These blessings move us to say, “why was I ever uncertain of His love?”

Lord, make me certain of You and of Your love. Amen.

October 12, 1955