HomeWord - November 18, 2011

The Test of Time
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on the foundation of your holy faith. —Jude 20 (NLT)

In numerous towns throughout the New England states you can find big, beautiful old homes that were built in the 1700’s and 1800’s. Thanks to historical committees and the hard work of their owners, many of these homes look virtually the same as they did two hundred years ago.

The seasons come and go with the summer sun beating down on these homes year after year. Wind, rain, snow and ice batter them winter after winter. The homes have weathered repeated blizzards and hurricanes. Yet, they have stood the test of time.

During the years that I lived in New England I found it fascinating that these old homes not only retained their value, but often surpassed the value of newer homes. It has been said that imitation is the highest form of flattery, and in this region when new homes are built, many are constructed to resemble the old ones.

Similarly, our faith is designed to last. Our life of following Christ is not without its seasons or its struggles. Doubts, life circumstances and even crises of faith batter us season after season. Yet, like an antique house, these seasons provide us with an opportunity to strengthen and build value to our lives as we, by faith, invite God’s partnership with us step by step along the way. And, faith that stands the test of time is beautiful to behold. Believers should look to more “seasoned” Christ-followers as role models. In them, we see the value of long-term faith and we can seek to imitate their lives.

Today, remember that God is in the business of building your faith – a faith that will stand the test of time. Invite Him to build your faith whatever experiences this day brings.

GOING DEEPER:

1. In what ways does God want to use your current circumstances or challenges to build your faith?

2. Do you have a role model of long-term faith in your life? If not, who could be this kind of mentor to you? If you do have this kind of role model in your life, thank that person today.

FURTHER READING:

James 1:12, Romans 14:4; 1 Corinthians 11:1-2; 1 Corinthians 16:13; 2 Timothy 4:7-8

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