faith journey – Page 3

Jeremiah 35:1-19 – What Makes the Recabites Faithful?

faithfulness seen in a woman praising and praying on a light blue background

It was interesting to hear the story of the Rechabites and how they are singled out for God’s purposes. Apparently, the Rechabites were a small group of Israelites, related to the Kenites, living in southern Judah. They hadn’t let the corruption of foreign gods discolor their faithfulness. In fact, this passage illustrates how the Rechabites exemplify what it means to be faithful and true.

In the example we’re shown, this faithfulness extends to a rule they had been given by a loved one. I found it strange there was no direct mention of God or their devotion to him. Their actions point to a devout vow that must have been started to avoid being distracted by wine and spirits.

1 Timothy 1:18-20 – Ready for Battle

Read 1 Timothy 1:18-20

boxer in red shorts with red globes standing in the spotlight looking determined

As Christians, we aren’t promised a problem free life. In fact, some even say the Christian walk can be a battle. The conflict between good and evil has been going on forever, and now we are caught in the middle. False teachers were emerging, and Paul’s counsel to Timothy shed wisdom on how to face those battles.

How do we avoid catastrophe on our own faith journey? How do we recognize false doctrine and evil in disguise? Paul’s example of faith being shipwrecked would have been powerful for the people of his day when disasters at sea were more common. This idea of people’s faith being tested was happening then and it’s happening now.

1 Timothy 1:1-11 – Be Filled With Love

Read 1 Timothy 1:1-11

heart shape made out of blueberries, strawberries and raspberries on a wood tabletop

Paul writes this letter to his dear friend Timothy to help him discern issues facing the early church. The wisdom here for us is still relevant and refreshing. You’ll recall Timothy was a young protégé of Paul’s serving as a church leader in Ephesus. Paul was a bit of a father figure to Timothy, too, so you might sense that kind of dynamic in the writing.

You can likely think of your own close Christian friend who took delight in pouring into you over the years. Those are treasured relationships. You may also be the wise one doing the same for the next generation. With all that is happening in our world, it’s easy to get distracted and focus on unhealthy sources. How thankful we can be for wise counsel, like Paul’s.

Joshua 1:10-18 – Get Ready! Get Set!

Read Joshua 1:10-18

Joshua is not wasting any time, is he? He is readying up the people for the journey. It will start by crossing the Jordan River. I’ve never seen the Jordan River in person, but I’m guessing it’s more than a “trickle” of water. There were certainly no bridges waiting for the people to cross. More recently, river crossings took place by the settlers making their way across the United States in covered wagons.

What were the people feeling? I can only imagine. It wasn’t going to be easy. But roaming around the desert for generations wasn’t easy either. What makes all the difference is when we put our trust in God. When God is the one leading the charge, we are more likely to call upon the courage that assurance gives us.