Faith to Overcomeნიმუში

I Believe, So I Work

Written by E. Danielle Butler

Genesis 22 verse 3 says, “Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He . . . cut enough wood for the burnt offering.”

Jessie Maple believed in the vision God had shown her and became the first Black woman admitted to the film and camera unions in the 1970s. But she knew it would take more than a “can do” attitude to enter the all-male, all-white union. She reached out to mentors. She rented equipment to practice and volunteered to film rental houses. Before she was admitted to the camera operator’s union, she had to pass a test. A witness noticed one of the cameras had been tampered with to sabotage the outcome. But Maple took a retest on the spot with perfect execution, just like the first time. She went on to become the first Black woman to write and produce a full-length film independently. She was a catalyst for the careers of other Blacks in film.

As with Maple, Abraham’s faith and works justified him. In Genesis 22, Abraham was instructed to sacrifice his son Isaac and did the prep work himself. He gathered the supplies. He took the journey. He prepared for the outcome. God honored his faith, obedience, and works and also spared His son. The result was a multiplication of Abraham’s descendants and future blessings. When we follow God in obedience, he rewards us and those around us in ways we often cannot imagine. Our faith can be contagious and inspire others to take action as we rely on God.

How is God asking you to trust Him? What actions will help you achieve your goal despite the obstacles you encounter?

Let’s pray.

Faithful God, please help me develop the work ethic to match my faith.

Amen.

Dear reader,

Thank you for engaging with Faith to Overcome. We hope that these daily meditations blessed you and that the Holy Spirit continues to work in you as you find strength amidst struggles.

To stay up-to-date on other resources that amplify stories of redemption, resilience, and faith in Black image bearers, please subscribe to emails from VOICES from Our Daily Bread Ministries.