Prayer Journal

Saturday, January 10, 2004

What was so amazing that it astonished the Son of God? I'm afraid that all too often Jesus' astonishment was probably disappointment. But when he saw the faith of the Centurion, the Lord was pleasantly surprised. After telling those walking with him what he thought of the Centurion's faith, he revealed that God's pleasure is not reserved for any one race of people.

It would be years later that Paul would evangelize the Gentiles. On this day however, Jesus commended the soldier for his faith. Men like the Centurion would take their place at Abraham's table. I'm sure the soldier probably thought, "Who is this Abraham he's talking about? It doesn't matter; it's all about Jesus. If he says that's a good thing, then it is! I trust what he says."

When Sarah died, Abraham knew his time on earth was limited. What would he do? Where would he go? His wife was the means by which God's fulfilled a promise and now she was dead! One thing for sure, he knew something about trusting God's word. In fact, Abraham would become the number one example of faith for all those who would come after him

The Centurion humbly asked for the Lord to help his servant but he didn't feel worthy of his help. But he had such concern for his servant, he did what he had to do to get help from the only One he thought was able to help. Jesus said the faith of both he and Abraham was pleasing to the Father. Perhaps more than any other, both men demonstrated the truth of Proverbs 3:6. "In all your ways, acknowledge the Lord and he will make your paths straight."

Does God find in you someone whose faith is worthy of recognition? Are you living in such a way God is pleased? Do you acknowledge the Lord in all your ways?

If prayer requires faith (and it does), then trusting God requires prayer with feet - to approach with confidence the only One who can help! Our Helper is Jesus and may he be astonished by our faith as we approach him boldly and actively trust his word!

Just Thinkin'... WebServant

1. Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Gn. 23 - 24:51 Mt. 8:1-17 Ps. 9:13-20 Pr. 3:1-6 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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