Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. … Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him (Heb. 11:1, 6).

Without confidence in our relationship with Christ, we become like my children, who at a young age feared standing up to cross a rope suspension bridge.

The anchors and ropes that held the bridge were perfectly secure, but my young children approached it with dread! They were far more focused on the depth of the chasm beneath them than on the security of the bridge that held them. So, in fear and anguish, they would only crawl across the bridge, even as other people confidently walked past them.

My children’s actions are at times reflected in believers who doubt their security in Christ. They crawl forward in their pursuit of God’s purposes, far more focused on personal weakness and spiritual danger than on the promises of God. Doubting the certainty of his care, they take baby steps for Jesus instead of confidently marching forward in his care.

The chasms of potential failure are real, and dangers from spiritual foes are immense, but the bridge to God’s purpose is supported by cables of his love and power that no earthly power can overcome. So, walk forward on the bridge of obedience to his Word with the faith that it is secured by the wisdom, strength, and love of your sovereign God.

Take each step of faith with the drumbeat of these oft-repeated words: The will of God will not lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you.   

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me to walk by faith in your sure provision this day, so that I step forward in your purposes with courage and confidence and not with childlike fears.