KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT: FAITHFULNESS
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness faithfulness…
Galatians 5:22 (NLT)
"I am telling you these things now while I am still with you. But when the Father sends the Advocate as My representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you."
John 14:25-26 (NLT)
Years ago, I had a coach who took a special interest in me. He trained me and spent extra hours on the field with me. However, one of the things I remember most about him was how he taught me about life and growing up as a man. My father wasn't around much, so he became like a dad to me.
One of the things I'll never forget that he said was if you're going to make it far in life, you're going to need to learn how to serve others. This helped me become a better player with the team. His words have proven true in my marriage. As I think about it, that's what God does with us. He teaches us in the Bible and through experiences. Then, when it matters most, He reminds us of what He said. He brings to mind what He's shown us in the past. God is faithful. He always fulfills His promises. He does what He says He'll do.
Today's passages remind us of God's faithfulness and teach us that as we deepen our walk with God, we naturally (supernaturally) become faithful like Him. It's His faithfulness to us that allows us to be faithful in our relationship with Him and others.
APPLICATION: As you seek to be faithful today, remember with all your heart the faithfulness of God. Write down several things God has taught you, and thank Him for teaching and guiding you.
PRAYER: God, I trust You and believe You always do what You say. Even when I don't understand what's happening, I know I can completely rely on You and Your promises. I pray You'll develop in me the character and integrity that allows me to be faithful. I open my heart to the work of Your Spirit. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?