Amos McCarthy

Tuesday, May 11.

Faith is often thought of as a thing we have—a belief in something or someone. But in the Scriptures, faith is more than a passive possession—it’s a firm confidence that results in action. In today’s passage, an action follows every mention of faith. Noah prepared an ark, Abraham obeyed without knowing where he was going, and Sarah confidently anticipated the son God promised.

Instead of sitting back, believers should count on God’s promises and act accordingly, as did the men and women listed in Hebrews 11. The Lord accomplished amazing feats through their lives when they believed Him and moved out in obedience. Like a muscle, faith grows the more we put it into action. In this way, believers strengthen their trust in God and His promises, even when they don’t live long enough to see the fulfillment in their lifetime.

Are you acting on your faith in God and His Word? When you see a command or warning in Scripture, do you obey it? Are you letting biblical truths about God’s character and power shape your thinking and responses? If so, your faith is growing strong.

Memory verse: Hebrews 11:6.

In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:6

Monday, May 10.

I’ve had the privilege of flying in several single-engine airplanes, but never once have I asked the pilot about his qualifications or the trustworthiness of the plane. I simply expected him and his aircraft to carry me safely to my destination. We usually don’t have trouble relying on planes or automobiles without question, yet we sometimes fail to trust the Lord.

Our faith in God is like spiritual glasses through which we view the world around us. Our physical eyesight may not detect His almighty hand working in the events and situations of life, but faith looks beyond the externals to the truth and promises of Scripture.

Our foundation of assurance is built upon God’s Word and our experiences of His trustworthiness. We have no cause for worry or uncertainty because the Lord of the universe is sovereign over every event under heaven, and that includes the details of our lives. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us not to be anxious; instead, we’re to bring our concerns and requests to God with thanksgiving, trusting Him to work it all out according to His will. Then His peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Memory verse: Philippians 4:6.

If I walk with the world, I can’t walk with God.” D. L. Moody

Friday, May 7.

No one likes criticism, but since it’s inevitable, we should learn how to respond in a godly way. Our natural reaction to hurtful comments is anger or defensiveness, but there can be great benefits for those who calmly listen and carefully consider the critique. In fact, we might limit our spiritual growth if we aren’t open to reproof. 

Some of life’s best lessons come through difficult words. If God allowed the situation, you can be sure He wants to use it to help transform you into His Son’s image. Whether the criticism is valid or not, whether it’s delivered with kindness or harshness, your goal should always be to respond in a way that glorifies the Lord. You are responsible only for how you handle yourself, not for how the other person acts. 

Every rebuke is an opportunity from God. Ask Him if the accusation is valid. It may be time to humble yourself and accept the Lord’s correction. A moment of criticism could also be a chance to show love to your critic. If he or she is angrily attacking you, your respect and kindness become a powerful testimony. Whatever the circumstances, let the Lord search your heart and either affirm your innocence or convict you.

Memory verse: Proverb 3:5.

“Don’t criticize what you don’t understand, you never walk in that man’s shoes.” Elvis Presley

Tuesday, May 4.

God’s kindness is demonstrated by the fact that He doesn’t leave us in the condition we were in before salvation. Throughout our life, the Lord uses certain tools to shape us into the image of His Son.

God’s Word. We grow in Christ when we spend time reading the Bible, because Scripture is like food that nourishes our soul. Yet sadly, some Christians rely only on the Sunday dinner of the Word served up by a pastor. 

Prayer. We learn to depend on the Lord by coming to Him with our needs and concerns as well as our praise and gratitude. As we regularly draw near, our intimacy and love for Him grows. Instead of seeing prayer as a duty, we’ll realize our time with the Lord has become a delight. 

The Church.The body of believers is another important factor in our transformation because that’s where we learn to love one another.  It’s also where we find encouragement, receive biblical instruction, and experience accountability.

Our culture has no shortage of worldly voices and pressures that fill minds and influence behavior. But when we intentionally schedule time for God, His Word, and His people, He does His transforming work in our life.

Matthew 4:4.

Memory verse: Matthew 4:4.

“Those who walk with God reach their destination.” Daystar