The Just Shall Live By Faith

2022 was a year filled with seeing new levels of God's goodness and glory in my life.  Every year, I find myself remarking that this was my best year yet, and then the next year comes, and God does something bigger.  As I was out walking my faithful furry friend today, I was reminded of the Big Things, and in an instant, I felt challenged; what could God do this year that was bigger than last year?  For a split second, I did not have an answer.  I realised I did not know what the Big Thing was that I am believing for in 2023.  I could not allow that moment to stand, so I purposefully sat down and began making a list of the Big Things I expected to see.  And as I made this list, I realised I was going to have to be purposeful to see these things come to pass.  This year was not going to be a year where I watched God do, but I had Big Steps to take within myself.

In reading Romans 1:15–17 (KJV)

So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Paul says, 'as much as in me is'; in the Passion Translation, it says, 'This is why I am so excited'; verse 16 uses the word, 'thrilled', to do what?  Preach the Gospel!  This is the Big Thing.  This is always the Big Thing.  It is the truth that sets captives free; it removed the chains of bondage that held me back, and it is what I should be so excited to do, so full of faith that when the word of God is shared, it is a seed planted in the hearts of man and it springs forth within them.

I believe in BIG Things in 2023 for the Kingdom of God, my family, and our ministry.  I believe that God can do the impossible, and I believe that I can see those things that seem impossible manifest in my life.  We cannot live on the miracles of the past: that is not faith.  Faith looks forward – far out into the future- and it expects to see continuously Bigger, Greater, Far-increasing Things than we could ever imagine.  Faith is now, and if you are not in faith, then you are not walking in the fullness of what God has for you.

Romans 1:17 (TPT) says, 'This gospel unveils a continual revelation of God’s righteousness—perfect righteousness given to us when we believe.  And it moves us from receiving life through faith to the power of living by faith. This is what the Scripture means when it says: “We are right with God through life-giving faith!”'.

Faith gives life.  If you have not done so, I would encourage you to sit down, make out your list of BIG Things you expect to see in 2023 - what you expect God to do in and through you - and keep it in front of your eyes.  Don’t let it depart from you.  We are going to ask Big and see Big this year.  I am excited about it!  Are you?

Day 30 Mark 14:12-42 – In today's reading, we see the disciples asking Jesus is it me, Lord, Jesus is speaking of the one that will betray him; they asked – Is it me? Take a moment today to examine your heart and commit to living your life poured out to Him. Comment with an emoji below or share what you expect to see in 2023.

Day 31 Mark 14:43-65 & Psalm 14 – What a contrast, In Mark, we see Jesus and the accusers, and Jesus is in the midst of fulfilling His purpose on the earth. In Psalm, it says that God looked on the earth searching for any that would seek Him. Take a moment today to give thanks for our resurrected Savior. Comment below with something that stood out to you in today's reading!

Day 32 Mark 14: 66-72 & Mark 15:1-15 – When reading the end of Mark, I always stop and think about Peter and his denial, but I also reflect on my life and my actions, and I think of every time I have done something that is against the Word of God, and I realise that it is my denial also, I am so thankful that Jesus loves me in spite of my shortcomings. Let's have a praise party and Give thanks for what He has done for each of us! Thank God we are redeemable!!!

Day 33 Mark 15:16-47 & Psalm 15 – In Psalm 15, we see a man's character that God is looking for. What character traits do you look for in men and women of God that serve with you.? What is the most important trait, and why?

Day 34 Mark 16 – Go Ye, Who will you share the Good News of Jesus with today? Who can we stand with you in agreement to receive Jesus? Let’s agree to send out Laborers together!! You can agree with me for my brother's wife, her children, and for a member of our team that works in visuals and editing.

Day 35 Romans 1:1-15 & Proverbs 3 – Proverbs 3:5 reminds us to Trust in the Lord with all our heart; this year of 2023 is going to be a year of Multiplication in leaders and provision. I challenge you. Do not dream small in 2023; dream BIG and have BIG asks for God! Together we are going to see amazing things come to pass. Do you believe it??

Day 36 Romans 1:16-32 – The just shall live by faith! What is the big takeaway for you from our Bible reading this week?