Advent Devotion - Strengthening Your Faith: Waiting on the Lord

Christmas Advent Devotion: Week 2

In our spiritual journey, there are moments when the presence of God may seem distant, and His voice appears silent. It's during these times that our faith becomes our anchor, a steadfast assurance that God is real and genuinely cares for us. Life's challenges can test our faith, leaving us wondering if God's love endures amidst adversity. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that we are called to wait on the Lord, for it is through patience that our faith is fortified.

"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

Psalm 27:14

The Testing Ground for Faith

Life's trials serve as testing grounds for our faith. They are akin to the exercises that strengthen our spiritual muscles. Just as our physical muscles grow stronger through exertion, our faith also requires exercise to flourish. But why is strong faith so crucial?

The Significance of Strong Faith

Strong faith is not just a religious sentiment; it's our lifeline, our connection to the divine. It empowers us to live as children of light in a world that often strays from the path of righteousness. Without robust faith, we become vulnerable to persecution, temptation, and sin. The Bible reminds us that even faith as small as a mustard seed possesses the power to move mountains. This underscores faith's incredible potential—the ability to dismantle the barriers in our lives, to shatter the strongholds constructed by the enemy, and to lead a life that pleases God.

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Hebrews 11:6

Hebrews 11:6 teaches us that without faith, it is impossible to please God. Those who come to Him must first believe in His existence and, more importantly, in His deep love for His children. Faith is not merely a theological concept; it's a transformative force that enables us to navigate life's complexities.

Strengthening Your Faith

So, how do we strengthen our faith? It's a journey guided by two simple yet profound practices: immersing ourselves in the Word of God and waiting patiently on the Lord.

1. Immerse Yourself in the Word of God

The Bible is a reservoir of divine wisdom, a testament to God's unfailing love. Through its pages, we come to understand the depth of God's affection and the indispensable role faith plays in our relationship with Him. As we diligently study His Word, our faith finds solid ground.

2. Wait Patiently on the Lord

In moments of trials and temptations, it's essential to wait upon the Lord. Call out to Him in prayer, seeking strength, guidance, wisdom, and peace. Waiting is an act of trust—an acknowledgment that His plans are purposeful and designed to fortify us. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us that God's plans are meant to prosper us and not to harm us, providing us with hope and a future. Therefore, wait upon the Lord with unwavering faith, knowing that His love and care for you surpass any human affection.

In conclusion, our faith is a dynamic force that requires nurturing and exercise. As we cultivate our faith through reading God's Word and waiting on Him, we discover that it is not merely a belief but a source of profound strength and unwavering hope. Trust in God's love, and know that He cares for you more deeply than any human ever could.