Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not see.

Hebrews 11:1

At first glance, this verse from the author of Hebrews sounds confusing. How is faith “substance” and “evidence”? Isn’t faith just a belief or trust, usually in someone or something? And wouldn’t “evidence” or proof come not from the belief itself but from the actions/outcomes of that thing or person in which (or in whom) we’re placing our faith?

Well, yes and no. Faith is belief and trust…but faith is also substantive evidence. 

When you walk into a restaurant, a waiting room, or someone else’s kitchen, and are asked to sit down, you probably don’t think twice as you glance at the empty chair and move to place your backside upon it. You have faith it will support you. Your faith is evidence that you trust the chair…and your faith is evidenced by your sitting down. Your faith is the evidence of things not seen—in this case, the unseen structure of the chair.

Faith is also the “substance of things hoped for.” This is exemplified every time you get in an automobile and drive down the road, hoping that the vehicles traveling in the opposite direction adhere to the unspoken instruction of that little yellow painted line. Your faith is the stuff of hope that others follow driving rules. And, again, your faith is evidenced by the fact you’re driving at all.

The list of illustrations goes on and on. But, as Christians, the meaning of “faith” as “substance” and “evidence” is pretty powerful. Our faith in Jesus Christ—and what He accomplished on our behalf, and how we are changed because of it—is the stuff of our hope! We know our future comes from our faith. And our faith is the evidence of what we cannot see with our eyes. We haven’t yet seen, but we have experienced the miracle of salvation, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the Providential answers to prayer. This is all evidence of our faith! (It’s mind-boggling and mind-blowing at the same time, I know.)

But let’s take one more step into the depth of this heady verse. Since faith is evidence (proof) of our belief, and our faith is evidenced (proven) by the One in whom we are placing our trust, a question bubbles up to the surface: How are we giving evidence of this faith? Do the people with whom we interact see our faith in action? Do we show love to our neighbors (Mark 12:31)? Are we kind, patient, good, gentle, and self-controlled (Gal 5:22-23)? Do we shine in all we do, glorifying God (Matt 5:16)? 

As Believers, we have faith in our Lord Jesus Christ—by His grace through our faith we are saved (Eph 2:8-9). But if that’s what it’s all about, why doesn’t God just scoop us up into Heaven at the moment of salvation? Because we are called to walk in and by faith, taking action to demonstrate our faith to a fallen and broken world (James 2:14-26). We are called to give evidence of a Holy God and mighty Savior. How will they know of His love and mercy if we don’t tell them (Rom 10:14)—and show them?

You may be a lawyer, or perhaps you’ve been on a jury. (Maybe you’ve been in court for other reasons, but I won’t ask.) But all of us have at least seen courtroom dramas on television. You know that the ultimate verdict demands strong evidence. And I just love what I heard someone once say: If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence of your faith in Jesus to convict you?

Lord, I have faith in You and am grateful for your grace, mercy, and love. Let me give evidence daily to this through my words and actions…let me sway the jury of my peers to the Truth of Who You are.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Ephesians 6:10-13

Ah, that time has come once again. A look back in assessment and a gaze forward with pivots and plans for the 12 months ahead. New Year’s resolutions. There are various approaches to this undertaking, from outlining life areas and delineating specific achievements with associated dates, to simply contemplating “more of/less of” actions and attitudes—and everything in between.

For me, like all of you, this past year was filled with the cultural, political, and economic challenges that hit home amid our nation’s response to COVID-19. But I also experienced several huge life changes in 2020, some of which include one son’s marriage, the other son withdrawing from college and moving out on his own, physical struggles, new job for hubby taking us 800 miles away from both kids, selling a house, moving where we know no one…are you getting the emotional picture? Suffice it to say, this year has resulted in “COVID-10” to my body…10 added pounds, that is. And I am determined to lose them—it’s one of my top New Year’s resolutions.

What about you? Is fitness on your resolution list? Reconnecting with friends? Serving more? Or are you, like many others, merely committed to making 2021 better than 2020 (as much as it depends on you)?

Whatever our focus in the year ahead, determination is the key to accomplishment.

Did you know, brothers and sisters, that as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to live a life of determination—not just when heading into a new year? I love the word “resolute” (although it’s not used much anymore). It’s defined as: marked by firm determination; bold; steady. And this is a beautiful and powerful way to describe our Christian walk. In fact, the Bible is steeped with exhortations to stand firm in our faith and be bold. Here are just a few verses to meditate on:

• It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1
• And if what was transitory came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts! Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 2 Cor 3:11-12
• Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Cor 16:13
• You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. James 5:8
• You will be hated by everyone because of Me (Jesus), but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Matthew 10:22

So, friends, whatever our 2021 resolutions may be—or even if you’re not making any—let’s all commit to be resolute in our faith this year. Let’s be steadily determined, because sin can so easily distract and ensnare us (Hebrews 12:1). Let’s stand firm, because the enemy is doing some serious prowling and devouring (1 Peter 5:8). And let’s be bold, because our culture is on the attack to silence us (Acts 4:29).

I pray that 2021 brings you a peace that passes understanding—a result of resting in the love, mercy, and grace of the Prince of Peace.

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Romans 12:13

Let’s be completely honest here. For all the “merry” and “happy” proclamations we give and receive this holiday season, merriment can be far from a reality. In fact, for many of us, depression and despair mark our world during this time much more profoundly than joy. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, an unexpected medical report, or an emptier nest than you anticipated, grief and sorrow can fade the festive colors to a dull gray.

Brothers and sisters, the truth is, depression is fed by focus. When we stare at and consider the darkness, it grows deeper and blacker. Like water to a garden, washing our fear, sadness, and grief with attention makes them bloom—so they cast a shadow over anything else that may be trying to push through the soul’s soil.

So, what do we do to win the battle of the blues (and grays and blacks)? Stop. Feeding. It.

Firstly, as the old hymn proclaims, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” Throughout the Bible (from Job and Nehemiah through Paul’s exhortations), we are encouraged to focus on God and take our attention off what ails us. Nothing makes our seemingly huge troubles shrink more than comparing them with our immense and awesome God.

Secondly, get involved in the life of others. Serve. Help. There is no doubt a richness of opportunity right in our own communities—especially with so many struggling through our nation’s response to COVID-19. We can start close to home and make a meal for a neighbor, or perhaps join a local outreach organization for an activity or two…maybe even volunteer at an animal shelter. And, certainly, our own respective churches have serving events throughout the year. Giving to others—of our time, talents, or resources—takes us out of ourselves and focuses our mind, heart, and spirit away from the dark chasm within.

C. H. Spurgeon, in talking to his congregation about his own ongoing battle with depression, eloquently described this very anecdote: He said that he needed to “stop gazing into the black hole of his own soul.”

Are you entrenched in the darkness—whether from being isolated this Thanksgiving and Christmas or from the immense challenges of 2020 in general? Know that you’re not alone. You have a gracious Savior who loves you. Look up. Reach out. And step out of the darkness. As you serve, joy will break through the clouds, and you’ll feel the smiling face of God.  

“Lord, help me focus on You, despite my circumstances, and lift me from the mire of sadness as I reach out to show Your love to others.”

[If you, or someone you love, suffers from depression, reach out to your church pastor for help.]

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.

Galatians 4:4-5

Research from Gallup last year (Dec., 2019) revealed that although 93% of Americans celebrate Christmas, only 35% of those do so in a “strongly religious” way.^*  But without the Reason for the season, Christmas is just a decorated tree, gifts, and some time off from work. Despite all the carols and twinkly lights, without belief in Jesus, the day is meaningless.

On that first Christmas, the world had not heard from God in about 400 years. People were doing their own thing, and probably just a small percentage of dedicated Jews were clinging to the promises of the prophets for a Messiah. 

But Christmas.

The silence was broken as two heavenly birth announcements were made, one to Zacharias (regarding his son, John the Baptist) and the other to Mary, a young teenager yet to be married. In fact, as the Bible’s New Testament opens, it initiates the fulfillment of 456 Messianic prophecies of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. (Let that fact sink in for a minute. If someone told you a thing would happen to you tomorrow, and it happened, you’d think, “Huh, that person got lucky.” But if that same someone told you 50 things that would happen—and they did—you’d be hard-pressed not to believe the source was sound. But what if that person told you 100 different things that would happen—and they did? What about 200? 300? 456? Who would doubt the veracity of that source? OK, I digress.)

Into that dark world over 2000 years ago burst the Light of the world. He came to be the final sacrificial Lamb—the One who would pay the final price of sin, removing the separation between men and God. He came to save us, justify us—by faith—so we can have peace with God (Romans 5:1). If we believe.

Today, the world is dark. (I can’t say it’s “darker than ever” with perfect certainty, but I can declare that it’s the darkest of my lifetime.) There is tangible fear, divisiveness, unholy self-gratification, and rampant foolishness. 

But Christmas.

We don’t have to wait for a heavenly announcement or a burst of light in the dark sky. It has come—He has come. Jesus. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). The greatest Gift has been delivered. If you haven’t already received this amazing, eternity-changing free gift of saving grace, won’t you make 2020 the year? 

Lord, Christmas has been watered down and secularized, losing it’s meaning. I pray that the Scriptural songs of the season and my words (and actions) reflect the Son and turn others to You.

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.  

Matthew 5:16

Some of you may agree with me when I say that “It’s a Wonderful Life” is not only the best Christmas movie out there, it’s also the best movie ever. We’re inspired by George Bailey’s constant selflessness and perseverance despite obstacles. We adore the love he and Mary have for each other. And of course, we’re brought to tears when George’s slightly dimwitted guardian angel shows him what life would look like if he was never born. And by unveiling the voids of his life unlived, Clarence (the angel-sans-wings) reveals the astonishing impact George has made on the lives of others—and how their respective lives then made additional impact.

For me, it’s not just the joyous Christmas Eve conclusion that gets me every time…I am repeatedly convicted about the way I live my own life all year long. See, like George, we each have daily opportunities to touch the lives of other people and make a difference. Sometimes, we receive immediate “feedback” as to the effect—a grateful smile for a simple kindness (perhaps amid the Christmas shopping chaos) or the knowledge of practical needs met (like with an Angel Tree contribution).

But more often than not, like George Bailey, we don’t recognize the incredible impact that our actions—small and large—make in life. In fact, the effects may not be revealed to us until we’re standing in the Lord’s presence. But know this: Every word and deed do have a ripple effect.

And friends, it’s not just the good stuff. (Ouch. But that’s another blog altogether.)

So, during this Christmas season—and all year long—let your light shine as you bear the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). You’ll be making a powerful, positive impact on those around you…and, with every ripple, to the whole world. Even if you don’t see it.

Plus, as Christians, when we shine, we magnify our Namesake, Jesus Christ, and glorify God. And, ultimately, this brings joy to our own souls in knowing we’ve brought a smile to the Audience of One. 

What could be more wonderful than that?

Therefore, be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us.

Ephesians 5:1-2a

Fashion trends come and go. But while they are current, we know exactly what they are, whether it’s skinny jeans or skinny ties, leggings with tunics, bell-bottoms, or shoulder pads. How do we know what’s hip? Well, all we have to do is look around: everyone’s doing it. Of course, today, we have Pinterest and social media to tell us how to stay in front of the fashion curve—from smooth hair and smooth foreheads to amplified backsides and amplified lips. 

It’s human nature, isn’t it? To imitate others (for better or worse). We want to look, dress, sound, and act like what we deem as “now”—heaven forbid we use the wrong slang term or show up wearing last year’s (or last decade’s) style. 

Most of this is chasing the superficial, but sometimes mirroring others is about wanting to improve ourselves. Perhaps there’s someone at work we admire, whether it’s their work ethic, career path, or position. If we want to attain that success, we will observe and follow suit. We will imitate that person (for better or worse).

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not bashing the choices anyone makes regarding trend-following. I do plenty of it (although I like to be just to the left or right of it—those who know me well understand what I mean). But, as Christ-followers, we are called to aspire to a different Standard. We are to be imitators of God (Ephesians 5:1). 

That’s a tall order. The great news is that it involves similar action that we take regarding worldly trend-following—just using a different Source. Instead of checking out the latest fashion blog with instruction how to wear booties with leggings, open the Bible and read how to “wear” the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Exchange reading about how to not look foolish at the next party (which may take place in 2022 at the rate we’re going) and discover all that the Word of God has to say about how to not be a fool (Psalm 14:1, Ecclesiastes 7:9, Titus 3:3…and practically all the Proverbs). 

The Bible is our ultimate Guidebook to what’s “eternally hip” in God’s eyes. Every chapter has insight into saying the right thing, doing the best thing, and being truly radiant wherever we go. In fact, becoming more like Christ as we walk through this world is what we’re tasked to do the moment we decide to trust Jesus and surrender to Him. The fancy theological word is sanctification, but we can just call it imitating Christ. And just as being a copycat to the latest trend has the power to potentially transform us, imitating Him will absolutely change us. And, sisters, it’s always for the better.

Lord, may I follow the Truths in Your Word, as I walk through this world—imitating You so much so that I start a trend that others will follow.

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Whatever your age, one thing is for sure: you are getting older. From young childhood, though, “getting older” was a constant desire. As teenagers, we couldn’t wait to be independent adults. In our early 20s, we looked forward to having that better job, more money, and perhaps a spouse and family. But once there are more than 45 or so candles on the cake, a few shifts happen.

First, time starts flying by—quicker every year. We blink, and another birthday is upon us. Second, if we have kids, those physical demands of parenting young children morph into emotional stressors that seem to grow as they do, remaining even after they leave the house and marry. But beyond the emotional, psychological, familial, and career shifts that occur into our fourth, fifth, or sixth decade of life, one of the biggest is physical.

I don’t know about you, but when I turned 48, everything changed for me. The same workouts I’d been doing at the gym seemed to no longer bring strength—they induced pain. Even as I become more careful with physical activities of every kind over the past few years since then, I experience more aches and random discomfort. (I heard a comedian say that once we turn 50, we can literally wake up with a sprained ankle. If you’re over 50, you’re probably laughing.)

So, what does this “it hurts to get old” talk have to do with spiritual truth? Well, after herniating a disc a few months ago and now living in consistent back pain, I was comforted to read Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, acknowledging the fact that our bodies are wasting away (v16). But, praise God, this body is not our permanent residence! As we walk with the Lord, becoming more like Him the longer we travel with Him, our spirits are being renewed. We are growing and flourishing inwardly while our exterior is fading. Our pain and aches in this life are indeed “momentary and light” as compared with our eternal glorified bodies. 

I know that some days it’s very hard to keep that perspective—Paul knew it too. That’s why he finishes his exhortation by reminding us to fix our eyes not on what is seen (or physically felt), but on what is unseen—our spiritual existence and eternal home (v18).

Honestly, I think that the slowing down, the aches, and the constant physical reminders of decades gone by are God’s way of keeping our focus on the right thing (Him) and in the right place (Heaven). Perhaps we can, with each twinge of discomfort or shot of outright pain, turn to the Lord in thanksgiving that something so much better awaits us.

Father, thank You that this world is not our home and this body is not our permanent dwelling. As I ask to be physically strengthened and healthy in this life, please also keep me appreciative of the life to come.

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

James 4:13-15

I don’t know about you, but I don’t generally like surprises very much—my husband of 26 years can attest to this. In fact, I love making plans. Whether it’s for the day, week, month, or year ahead, I’ve got my sticky notes, lists, and paper planner all reminding me what I will be doing and where I’ll be going when. This way, there are no surprises. Life is made up of expectations to be met and lists to conquer. It’s the perfect scenario for us control freaks—can I get an “Amen”?

And that’s all fine and dandy, except for the truth that we’re not in control. Every breath we take is because the Lord has allowed for it. When we wake up in the morning—to new mercies, mind you—it is only due to the grace of God. All those lists and schedules are great, but if our Heavenly Father deems that an unseen “Plan B” is better for us, then that’s what will happen. The Bible tells us clearly, “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps” (Proverbs 16:9).

Now, I’m not saying that our plans are irrelevant, or that every move each day is made for us, like we’re puppets on strings. Actually, because our amazing God wants us to love Him by our own choice, He has given us free will in all things. We can watch that show or not, cheat on our taxes or not, give cheerfully to the church or not…love God—or not. 

But wait, aren’t I contradicting myself? Are we in control, or are we not in control? There’s a long, complicated theological discussion in this question that has raged through the centuries, so I’m not even going to try to attempt the solve in this little blog post. But what I will say it this: As Christians, we need to understand and remember who God is. He is Sovereign, He is all-powerful, and He knows what’s best for us. We are called to be self-controlled (Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Peter 1:5-8), but not controlling. And when we stay surrendered to Him and remain obedient to His Word, our actions and choices will be aligned with His will. Because we want to please and glorify Him, His will becomes our will. (When we are adamant to do what we want, He’ll certainly let us…but the ultimate outcome may not be good for us—even if it “feels good” at the time.) 

So, every morning when our eyes (miraculously) open, let’s give the day to the Lord. With each list made, let’s yield to Him. Since God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9), let’s make our plans—and prayers—with this holy caveat: “Lord willing.”

Father, as I make my lists and plans—for today, tomorrow, and next year—let me do so with the knowledge that it’s Your will that I really want. Not mine.

You were bought at a price.

1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23

In this time warp that is 2020, it’s astounding to me that Christmas is just around the corner. Wasn’t it just the 4^th of July last week? Or, wait, maybe that was 17 years ago. The nation’s response to this virus has turned every day since March into Blursday—can I get a witness?

But it is definitely December and, ready or not, Christmas is here. Some of you have, no doubt, been cranking up the carols since early November. (Dare I say, September?) Others of you (like a certain sister-in-law of mine) have had all your Christmas gifts purchased or handmade by August 1. And although it looked a bit different this year, Black Friday may have been that hallowed day you awaited to get most of your presents purchased.

No matter the Christmas-gifting style, we’re all on the hunt for a bargain—we never want to pay full price. In stores or online, we hit the sales section/tab and assess the markdown amount, getting giddy at the denoted percentage saved. This is especially exciting at Christmas, when there’s a high quantity of items needing to be purchased, so the cheaper, the better! 

But, friends, I want to challenge us this Christmas to focus on another price tag, one paid at the full price—in full. 

When we sing carols celebrating Emmanuel, God with us, and how Jesus came to earth to live among us, let’s not stop at the manger scene. He was born to die. That baby, fully human and fully God, grew to make a way—to BE the Way—for our salvation. To take our sins (past, present, and future) and make them His own, taking on the penalty—death—so we could live. His blood, shed on the cross, cleansed us of our unrighteousness (1 John 1:9), so we can stand before God perfectly righteous and holy. 

Sin has a hefty price tag, one that cannot be marked down by good works or big church donations. And this great debt has grave consequences if not paid: eternal separation from God, full of suffering. But Jesus Christ, the Baby we celebrate on Christmas, arrived to earth, proverbial pen in hand, to one day pay the bill. And He did. He paid the price on the cross and then defeated death, rising again to finish the purchase on our behalf. He gave us the priceless gift of eternal life in His presence.

So, with every sale price we pursue this Christmas—and all year long—let’s pause to give thanks to the One who paid it all for us.

Lord, thank You doing what I could not, for giving everything—Your life for mine—so I could live in Your presence for eternity.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.  

Acts 16:25

It’s easy to praise the Lord when things are going smoothly in life—when family, work, health, finances, etc., are all humming along. (Wait, is that even a thing?) And a hearty “hallelujah!” rolls right off the lips when we see God do a miracle in an impossible situation. Or, when we’ve joined others in praying for a stormy situation to be calmed, a prodigal to return, or wisdom to be found, and He shows His amazing power and grace, an outpouring of praise and thanks comes naturally. (In fact, even unbelievers will provide a “Thank God” when circumstances go their way.) 

Oh, but what about those dark nights when the pain of life is palpable despite our cries to our Heavenly Father? When, even with an army of prayer warriors on our side, our expressed will is not aligned with God’s, so the resulting outcome is harder to humanly bear than the challenge itself—what happens to our prayers then? Or if the Lord, for His timing and eternal reasons, allows us to endure a season of being beaten and bruised even though we’re walking closely with Him…how can we possibly raise a “hallelujah” then?

Brothers and sisters, we can—we must—continue in faithful praying, praising, and singing even in the darkness. This is when unbelievers around us are watching us most closely to witness what’s going to happen to our “praise God” proclamations. Like Satan (or even Job’s own wife!) observing Job, those around us are just waiting for us to curse God in our suffering and turn away…Will we take back our surrendered life, relying on our own wisdom and wits to get us through? Will we completely abandon Him, with a God’s-not-big-enough conclusion? 

Like Paul and Silas imprisoned in Philippi (Acts 16:16-40), we have an amazing opportunity to stand firm and demonstrate our faith to unbelievers in dark, difficult times. See, without good cause, these guys were stripped, beaten with rods, and shackled in prison. Then, in the middle of the night (probably not sleeping because of the intense pain), they began praying and singing aloud to God, “and the other prisoners were listening to them” (vs. 25). And when all the doors were miraculously opened, and everyone’s chains unfastened—not just Paul’s and Silas’—something incredible happened. Because of the demonstrated faith of these men, the jailer, and ultimately his whole household, believed in the Lord Jesus and were saved. He even fed Paul and Silas and tended to their wounds. 

Luke tells us in this chapter that none of the other prisoners escaped, but he doesn’t say why. In my sanctified imagination, though, I think the actions of Paul and Silas made a huge impact on them before the doors blew open—they were listening, after all. They didn’t know a miracle was about to happen. They just saw and heard these two Christians responding to their dire circumstances with prayer and song. So, I like to believe they accepted Jesus as Lord earlier that night. And, in my mind’s eye, I can see them singing harmony with Paul and Silas as their own chains fell off. 

Lord, let me use the dark circumstances of my life to shine Your light brighter, demonstrating faithfulness and trust to a doubting world.