pleased

We walk in Christ by grace through faith

and this pleases the heart of God.

This time of year, there's often a fire in our bones to be better. Try harder. To do more. And we say it's for ourselves, but then we post about it waiting for the approval of others. Wanting them to see us. Someone, be proud of us. Be pleased with us.

And for those of us who are following Jesus who want to walk in step with Him, that often translates into wanting to try harder for Him. To do more for Him. Wanting Him to see us. Hoping that He'll just be proud of us. Be pleased with us. But how, really...?

"And without faith it is impossible to please God" (Hebrews 11:6a)

What ultimately pleases the heart of God? It's faith dear friends. Faith.

"because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Hebrews 11:6b)

Faith that we believe He is who He says He is. And that the sweetest reward in life comes from seeking Him... nothing else. The ultimate gift is Him!

And faith does indeed fuel what I do (James 2:14-26)! When I know the best thing in life is found in Him and I am seeking Him above all else, it will change what I do. But the works standing alone are not what pleases God. The heart of faith does.

And as I heard Louie Giglio one time (and I'm sure so many other Bible teachers) point out, we walk in Christ the same way that we received Him (Colossians 2:6). And how do we receive Him? "By grace" and "through faith" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

We walk in Christ by grace through faith and this pleases the heart of God.

So many of us "have trust issues." They're real. They're real and we've been really hurt. And sometimes for a very long time. And I can get tired. And I can just not want to try anymore. But let me tell you this, even though others have let us down (and I've let others down),

God alone is the One Who always keeps His Word.

He is faithful and true. In fact, "Faithful and True" is one of His names (Revelation 19:11).

And the glory of it all, is that even when I am faithless He still remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). And His lovingkindnesses and compassions are new each and every morning...because He is faithful (Lamentations 3:22-23).

So like the sweet man who asked, I ask today and I ask you to join me: “I do believe; help my unbelief.” (Mark 9:24)

If you are scared to trust the Lord, let Him reintroduce Himself to you. So open up His Word and get to know Him more. Because faith comes by hearing, and hearing comes by His Word (Romans 10:17). And then surround yourself with what reminds you that He is the best reward in life...worship Him in spirit and truth!