Devotional: A Faith That Pleases God

Hebrews 11:4–6

Scripture

“Without faith it is impossible to please Him…” - Hebrews 11:6

Thought for Today

In James, we learn that “For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.”

As someone who is goal-oriented and focused on productivity, I can at times leverage this verse to justify my striving heart. The issue lies not in my works, but a misalignment in my heart with the Lord. I must continuously check myself…”Are my works for him, in faith, or are they for my own gain, to do things my way, and for my self-righteousness?”

God isn’t looking for perfection.

He’s looking for a heart that trusts Him enough to move toward Him, walk with Him, and rest in who He is.

Last Sunday, we discussed from Hebrews 11 three simple movements of a faith in action that delights God.

1. Faith Approaches God His Way (Abel)

Abel didn’t bring God what was convenient; he brought what God asked for. Abel was seen as righteous not because of his striving, but because of his obedience. Faith begins by coming to God on His terms, not ours.

2. Faith Walks With God Daily (Enoch)

Enoch, in a time of deep corruption, stood apart from man and intentionally walked with God.

A steady, daily companionship is what pleases God most.

3. Faith Anchors in God’s Character (v.6)

Faith believes two things:

God is real.

God is good.

The reward for seeking Him is not stuff…it’s Him.

In summary, A faith that pleases God is beautifully simple:

Approach Him.

Walk with Him.

Trust His goodness.

This is the faith God delights in, and the faith He invites you into today. And in doing so, we ensure our faith and works are in alignment with his will.

Reflection:

Where am I offering God convenience instead of obedience? What small step can I take today to walk closely with Him? Where do I need to trust God’s character again?

Cultivating Prayer

As we gathered, we discussed the importance of cultivating prayer in our lives and in our church. We believe that being dependent on God is the perfect place to be. As individuals and in our church, are we "praying continuously"? Take some inventory in your life right now and ask yourself how much you prayed yesterday. If I asked you to write down the top thing taking sleep, stealing focus, or distracting you right now, what would that be? Take some time to reflect on that, and then let's make a commitment to lift that up in prayer the rest of the week. We want to hear how He answers your prayer or shifts how you see the very thing you lift up to Him!

Prayer:

Lord, help me bring You my first and best. Make my everyday life a walk with You. Root my confidence in who You are, not what I see and do. Bring to my mind the things that I need to surrender to you. Transform me, Lord, move through me, Jesus.

AMEN