Jesus - The Author and Finisher of our Faith

13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written,“Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”[h]), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Observation - This scripture puts to rest the conflict that is within myself regarding Law/Spirit issues. We (who have been saved through faith in Christ) can rest assured that it is not by following rules we have access to God. When our focus is just on living a righteous life because of the words on the page, we are to be pitied. True righteousness can only be grasped through faith in Jesus/Yeshua. His finished work on the cross is our only access to Yahweh.

Application - My life is complete when I look to Yeshua, the author and finisher of my faith. God can then work within my spirit by His Holy Spirit to bring the necessary changes in my heart. His Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. HAVE FAITH IN GOD!

Prayer - May you show us your mercy as we walk through this earthly life. Let my faith rest in the finished work of Jesus, who came to earth and laid down his life on the cross, so that all who look upon him (in faith) can enter in to the hope of eternal life. Help me to keep my gaze fixed on Jesus from this day forward. Amen.

Does My Life Measure Up?

Scripture - Ephesians 4:2  Always be humble, gentle and patient, bearing with one another in love, 3 and making every effort to preserve the unity the Spirit gives through the binding power of shalom. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as when you were called you were called to one hope. 5 And there is one Lord, one trust, one immersion, 6 and one God, the Father of all, who rules over all, works through all and is in all.

Observation - This scripture focuses on the character of the believer. We, as believers, ought to emulate Christ to those who are around us. If we are truly his, then what manner of person should we be? This scripture portion sums it up - we should be humble, gentle, patient, bearing with one another in love, and making every effort to preserve unity through peace (shalom). Brothers and sisters, in order for this to happen, our focus must be on the love of Jesus.

Application - We need to begin to ask ourselves some serious questions. Am I a child of God? Why does it seem so hard to love at times? Am I willing to come out of my selfishness and put my focus on loving others? I know I am a child of God. It seems so hard for me to love at times because I am selfish. We must begin to see past ourselves to help a lost and dying world.

Prayer - Father, please help me to be sensitive to the needs of others that you have placed in my path. Let my life exhibit your love and peace to a world that so desperately needs you. Light my path and guide my footsteps. Amen.