Stress Test Devotional April 27
April 27, 2024
ACTS 3:16 | And by faith in his name, his name itself has made this man strong, whom you see and know; and the faith that is through Jesus has given him this perfect health in the presence of all of you.
MARK 10:51-52 | Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.
MATTHEW 9:2-7 | And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.” And he stood up and went to his home.
These passages of physical healing remind us that faith is more than a set of concepts, learned and agreed to. Faith is a power which frees us and others from maladies and tragedies. It is a power which is active in the followers of Jesus, and it can grow. Salvation from death and sin is a final fantastic gift—but God wants to save us now from habits that hurt, perspectives that distort, emotions that scar.
Some people come to faith in a moment of inspiration, others slowly just as the sunrise gradually brings enlightenment. But everyone should desire to grow their faith. Take a step of obedience, and your faith will grow. Deepen your prayer life, and your faith will grow. Begin an involvement in God’s work of showing love and bringing justice, and your faith will grow. Pray with someone else, and your faith will grow.
What is your strategy for growing your faith?
