Expansion: Your Kingdom ComeSample
Expanding your faith
Faith is being certain of something we can’t see; a future where we’re braver, bolder, more capable, and more fulfilled. Faith is being certain that God can and will change the lives of those we see around us for the better. He loves us as we are but loves us enough not to leave us there. Faith is mandatory for Expansion because we only make room for something when we believe it’s coming. No one puts fresh sheets on the bed in the spare room just for fun or runs out and stockpiles groceries unless they know guests are coming.
The writer of Hebrews spoke about the confidence (vs. 19) God’s people have because of what Jesus did. Jesus died for us, so we can be confident that we are loved, forgiven, known, adopted, have an eternal future, and that He cares for us and will never leave or forsake us (and so much more). Confidence in Jesus opens doors for us. When we draw near, willing to look at ourselves to see whether anything in us is a barrier to hearing from God (confession and repentance), and when we ‘unswervingly’ hold onto that faith, we can and should do good things.
ASK YOURSELF THIS: Am I stepping out in faith or staying put in safety?
Faith requires going places BEYOND where we can provide. Faith spurs us on (vs. 25) and causes us to spur those around us in our devotion and service to Jesus. So, strengthen your faith and the faith of those around you. Verse 38 says the “righteous will live by faith.” This is a season of Expansion, unswerving faith, mutual encouragement, salvation, and sanctification.
ASK YOURSELF THIS: What does faith look like in YOUR life today?
It’s important to check that you’re not trying to live out someone else’s faith! What has God put on your heart? Where do you find yourself drawn to serve, give, or contribute? What do you wish was different around you? Have you ever thought that maybe that discontent is holy discontent? Maybe not everyone sees that gap. Maybe you see a solution no one else can even imagine. Have faith today that God made you on purpose, for a role that no one else can fill, and He will equip you for whatever He calls you to (Hebrews 13:20–21).
About this Plan
Expansion is a season where you will be encouraged to enlarge your faith, generosity, and belief for greater things in your life and those around you. The theme of Expansion 2023 is 'Your Kingdom Come,' based on the Lord's Prayer. This reading plan explores ideas and challenges we may face as we lean into this season. This month, stop, sit, read, meditate, pray, and act.
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