MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
Scripture: Hebrews 11:1-2, Matthew 10:37-39

In Hebrews 11:1-2 we find the essence of faith for the end-times. Faith for the end-times is an issue of believing God’s Word and choosing to act on it accordingly. Faith without works is dead, but faith with corresponding action is how God ordained the church to act on His promises. Hebrews 11:1-2 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.” Are we using our faith to serve God and to serve His eternal purposes or are we using our faith to serve ourselves? I have seen people choose to use their faith to serve themselves. The ‘faith movement’ was geared toward the principle of, ‘Name it and claim it’ and a number of people used their faith to get comfort, stability and personal, self-motivated gain. Do we find ourselves believing more for what will bring personal advantage or more for what will bring to pass God’s will? Have we set our hands to God’s eternal purpose? Are we using our faith for His purpose? If we can answer with a resounding yes, then we are in the center of His will. If we are growing in that ability, we are also doing His will. What we are using our faith for is a question that reveals much about who we are and where our heart is. This does not mean that we will never pray for our own wants or needs but very simply means that we should rely on the Holy Spirit to birth and direct our prayers. This is part of taking up our cross daily and following God and His plans and purposes.