DON’T DOUBT

Samuel Francis DuPont was a successful Admiral in the United States Navy. In spite of his brilliant career, on one occasion he suffered a humiliating defeat. Following this loss, he went to his commanding officer and carefully explained what went wrong.

At the end of his explanation, his commanding officer said, “There’s one more reason you lost the battle that you did not mention. You did not believe that you could win.”

Doubt leads to defeat. It destroys our determination and undermines our vision. The same is true in our relationship with God. Whenever we doubt God’s power or ability and place our trust in ourselves, some other person, or something else, it is as though we are saying, “God, I don’t trust You so I’m going to try to solve my problem on my own or with someone else’s help because I don’t need You.”

Jesus once said, “If you really believe, you can say to this mountain – May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea – and it will happen!” Jesus used this powerful illustration to emphasize one fact: God can do the impossible with us, for us, or through us. God answers our prayers when we pray sincerely and honestly and place our faith in Him alone. When we are seeking to glorify ourselves and have selfish motives, He will neither hear nor answer our prayers. If what we ask for will bring ultimate glory to Him, is in agreement with His character, and extend His kingdom on earth, He will hear and answer.

Prayer: Lord, help us to realize that our prayers must be consistent with Your teachings and will. Help us to know Who You are and have confidence in Your Word and believe that all things are possible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today:   Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God.” Mark 11:22