Day 3

A GIFT FOR JUST SUCH A TIME

"...If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea: and it should obey you." Luke 17:6

In Ephesians 2:8-10 we have an astonishing statement of the way in which God enables us to react like Hannah in adverse circumstances. He gives us the gift of faith - of belief and trust in him - so that we may grow into a full relationship with him. Hence Jesus' words in our discover text. However small our faith it is a precious gift from God.

Has anyone ever said to you, "you must have more faith"? It's not very helpful advice is it? The Bible shows us that faith develops only as it is exercised. Only by taking God at his word and testing his willingness to lead us can we prove him and come to trust him.

Pamela had a hard decision to make. She wanted to be baptised but her boyfriend was not a Christian. She was afraid that if she went ahead she would lose him. Her pastor understood her struggle and gave this advice: Jesus is your master and friend for life and eternity. He has promised to ensure that everything works out for your best interests in the end. If your boyfriend really loves you he will respect your decision. If not, however hard it seems, wait for God to work things out with the right man for you.