Faith Above Knowledge... The X Factor Devotional - Day Sixteen - February 1, 2010

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1

The believer must exercise faith by acting in obedience to God’s Word.  As the Apostle Paul explained to the Romans, “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17, NKJV).  Such a response allows you to enter into partnership with God, and gives the assurance of success even though you may not see the end in sight.

When Noah was directed by God to build an ark, he obeyed by starting a project that lasted for 100 years.  Noah had never experienced a flood, nor had he even seen rain, yet he obeyed the Lord with reckless abandon.  Since the command of God came without a specific schedule, Noah had to believe and act accordingly because authentic faith has no time limit.

Hebrews 11:7 says that Noah, “when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.”  The fear wasn’t fright, but a deep and abiding respect for the Lord and a confidence in His Word.  Faith was the only reasonable response for Noah, as it is for us today.  As we look to the church’s future we can’t see it perfectly (that’s the “X” in The X Factor), but we can know God will honor our obedience to Him in the commitments we make.

Prayer Focus:  Encourage each member of your family or small group to ask, “Lord, what do you want me to do in this spiritual journey?”  Whatever His leading, respond in faith. 

Would you be willing to ask God right now, “Lord, How are you going to challenge me to participate in The X Factor?”  Don’t settle yet… continue the journey and be open to His leading. 

And when He leads… even if it requires faith above your knowledge… above common sense… respond with obedience!