Fashioned for faith

2 Corinthians 5.7— 7 For we live by faith, not by sight.

I’m sure you have heard the phrase ‘I know them, but not by sight’. Often referring to someone we have a connection with but no real relationship. In the same way, when we begin the journey of faith in God it takes on a similar nature. As we grow in our knowledge of Him, our understanding of His ways and
our deepening love and intimacy with Him, so our faith increases too. Our trust deepens and our reliance on His life-giving Spirit yearns even greater.

And as we grow, our understanding of who we are in Christ and what we do in the Spirit, becomes increasingly pleasing to God. Furthermore, the sobering words of verse 10 take on a deeper and less superficial message of judgement and rather a message of God looking for when we speak words of kindness, undertaking acts of mercy driven by our compassion for God’s creation, speak- ing on behalf of the voiceless because of injustice—it is these things that God is looking to credit us with.

It is no wonder this same message is echoed in Philippians 1—make your life count. No matter where you are, which area of work or ministry you are in, you are the fragrance and presence of God and His kingdom, in that place.

Make it count. Stop and breathe.

Loving Father, as you delight in us so we delight in you. May our thoughts, words and actions bring you pleasure. Today, may the family of Middlesbrough Community Church be influencers and agents for justice, love and compassion wherever our sphere of influence is.