City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies. 

–Hebrews 11:29-31 (ESV)

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

–Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)

Set your gaze on the path before you. With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead, ignore life’s distractions. Watch where you’re going! Stick to the path of truth, and the road will be safe and smooth before you. Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment or take the detour that leads to darkness.

–Proverbs 4:25-27 (TPT)

Aisha’s Analysis

Today’s verses from the Hebrews “Hall of Faith” list three examples of great faith: 1) the people of Israel crossing through the Red Sea on dry land; 2) the walls of Jericho falling down after they had been encircled for 7 days; and 3) Rahab’s friendly welcome to the spies. 

All three of these examples depict faith through personal choices and corresponding actions. 

The descendants of Israel chose to leave behind a life of slavery into the unknown through the Red Sea no less. They had to take that first step trusting the walls of water would not crash down on them. Subsequently, they had to continue to build trust in God while living in the wilderness. 

Joshua’s army encircled the walls of Jericho for seven long days building their faith circle by circle. They were silent, but they were stepping in faith. This culminated in a loud shout that ended with the walls crashing down. 

Finally, Rahab’s friendly welcome and invaluable intel she provided to the Israeli spies not only resulted in victory for Israel, but a whole new way of life and faith for Rahab. 

In each of these instances the people of faith consciously decided to trust in God’s faithfulness. There was no guarantee of the outcome, which is why their faith made all the difference. This shines new meaning on why it is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). God is not a concierge to help life go smoothly for us. He offers us friendship at the deepest level–a friendship built on faith. 

Faith in God is birthed from His faithfulness. He is faithful to make the way for us, and all we have to do is trust Him enough to take that first step of faith into His grace. 

Application

God does not guarantee us an easy, pain-free life, but He does reward those who diligently seek Him. How might your trust in God, or lack thereof, impact your daily attitude, behavior, and choices?

No matter what life looks like for you, God is good and He loves you. That’s something you can count on in any situation. Truly, that’s what makes life worth living–our relationship with Him and others. 

Today’s application is to simply ask yourself these questions: If I really believed God is who He says He is and is faithful to fulfill His promises, how would I respond? Would I show up in faith, shrink back in fear, or resist Him in opposition? 

Let your honest answers to these questions guide you into prayer today. It could be that you don’t even know who God really is and this could be the start of a beautiful friendship. Talk to God about it regardless of how you feel right now. 

Prayer

Father God, I am so incredibly grateful that You made a way for me to be in right relationship with You. You sent Your son to pay the ultimate price for my sin. Thank You for Your costly sacrifice. I could never work hard enough to earn it, and thankfully I don’t have to. You graciously offer life with You as a gift. I receive the fullness of Your free gift of righteousness and pray I learn to walk in Your ways as I follow You throughout my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.