Happy New Year!
Our Scripture reading today is Colossians 2:6-7.
Verse 7, "Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
While the Apostle Paul is writing to the church at Colosse, this verse of Scripture is applicable to every people group in every generation. The word, stablished, means to make sure, confirm, to make firm. What needs to be stablished most in the Christian life? I think we see the answer in this verse. Our faith must be made sure and firm.
Faith is not only part of our salvation. Faith is a vital part of our daily life. If someone places their faith in tradition and good works to give them eternal life, they will be very disappointed when they take their last breath. Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." In addition to saving faith, our daily walk must also be anchored in faith. Our faith should not be in ourselves, but in the Word of God. Romans 10:17, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." The more we read, study, and obey the Word of God, the more our faith will be established and strengthened.
On this very first day of 2021, set a goal to read a portion of God's Word every day. There are numerous helpful reading schedules that can be used. Find one that will challenge you and stay with it for the next 365 days!
Your Friend,
Pastor