Jan 28 2008
Monday, Jan 28th
Reading for today: Genesis 8:6-12 and Matthew 9:14-26
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“Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.”
Matthew 9:22
This year I will purpose to sit a little longer each day with my Lord and Savior, to communicate directly with Him and continue to grow in my faith. How strong is your faith today? Is it like the followers of John the Baptist, questioning Jesus? Is it like the ruler who was seeking Jesus? Or is it like the woman whose humble heart knew that Jesus would heal her?
Jim & Kim Hyatt

With FAITH in GOD, and because of it, you can rejoice (feel joy and delight) even in the midst of adversity or strenuous, debilitating circumstances. Can you do that with your faith? God said all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Can you have FAITH in His Word? There it is - I have my guarantee - His Word. For the trying of your faith produces, works or brings to pass patience. God’s Will is that your trials and tribulations are always gonna produce something in you that will move, or even push you forward. How will you ever know how strong you are, or how strong you can be, unless you are hard pressed and heavy burdened. It’s like lifting weights to build muscles and strength. God’s plan is always for your good. He said in His Word, I know the thoughts I have towards you. They are thoughts of peace and not evil, to give you an expected (long awaited, hopeful) end. This FAITH is worthy of loyalty. This FAITH is in nobody but God; His presence, power, and provision. His will is perfect, and His grace is sufficient for you. He is perfect. He cannot fail. You cannot lose even when all of your senses are telling you otherwise. You cannot lose even when people try to come against you, saying all manner of evil against you. I like to call it crazy faith. Better yet, it’s supernatural FAITH. When FAITH takes hold of you, you need to take hold of it and stay true to it. Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God!
Be captivated!!!
As I reflect on the quoted verse ““Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” I’m thinking about Rosemary’s passing and how she is having great conversations with Jesus now. She has been made 100% well, and she is beholding the very face we are all longing to see! Her faith in the Lord to save her has been realized, and it brings Chris & I much comfort to know that even though she has died, yet she lives!
I know how you feel, Julie. When my Dad passed away last year, it was so comforting to know that he was with the Lord. I often reflect on his passing and the thought of my Dad in heaven brings much peace. It brings to mind the ministry of the “great commision” we all have in sharing the gospel. What a blessing it is when we know without a shadow of a doubt that those who we’ve shared the love of Christ and the salvation message with, when received, will enjoy the grace, beauty and mystery of our Lord and Savior. Praise God for His faithfulness. How Great Thou Art! Our love and prayers to you and your family.