Listening & Learning — A Devotional

Luke 18:8

FAITH

LUKE 18:8. “Nevertheless when the Son of Man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?”

FAITH. Faith isn’t in popular vogue at this moment in the world’s history. It seems like everyone is living for the moment. Each day seems to be an end in itself and the phrase, “Just live one day at a time,” seems to be what people feel is important. Where is the need of faith, if I have all the food I can eat and more? What do I need faith for if I have more money than I can spend? Who do I need to turn to if I am self-sufficient and can get for myself anything I desire?

It is true we act in faith in many different ways daily. But there is one aspect of faith that is increasingly hard to find. That is faith in a righteous God, who knows every thought and intent of the heart. Out of all the billions of people on earth, most want to be in complete control of their own life. The thought of their need of faith in God is an affront to their independence and capability that gives power to their identity. Will there be people of faith when the Lord comes? Will there be those who are so in touch with God that they fear acting without divine guidance? If I am alive when He comes again, I trust I am one of those who truly realize “Without Him I can do nothing.” I have found the life of faith so satisfying and assuring, I would feel incomplete as an “independent.” Dependence on God gives strength way beyond any self-motivated strength. Dependence on God empowers one to attempt and accomplish far beyond what is normal. Dependence on God keeps one humble and happy at the same time. Dependence on God is satisfying beyond any form of self-satisfaction because literally, “The sky is the limit.” And that is not just the blue sky I can see, but it means all the power, benefits, joys and life of heaven can be mine here on earth.

Yes, the Lord will find faith on the earth. There will always be the genuine among the counterfeit. Even though the number of people of faith may be small, faith will be there. The light will be shining. Reality of faith will be seen in its resonance amidst all the noise of self-importance going on so blatantly. He will find faith on the earth among those who love Him supremely and serve Him happily.

“Thank You, O heavenly Father, for making faith so realistic and important to me. I know that this does not fit the natural man, but it does fit me well. I am finding faith to be an on-going part of my life I can’t do without. Thanks for making it evident in so many “life situations” and for making it normal to me. I know it is all Your doing and I love You for it. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I give you heart-felt thanks. Amen.”