Daily Bread – May 12, 2022 (The Fifth Day – Genesis 1:20-23) Matthew 8:8 – The centurion said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof; but speak the word only, and I know that my servant shall be healed.” How Faith Works The definition Jesus gave of faith was characterized in the confidence a Roman Centurion had in Him. The centurion recognized Who Jesus was, and laid hold on the power and authority which Jesus possessed. He was in such awe of Jesus, that he did not feel worthy to even have Him come to his house. The centurion’s faith was born in his awe for Jesus, and he was so taken by the person of Jesus, he was certain Jesus could do anything. He saw in Jesus the greatness of a Kingdom greater than Rome, and knew Jesus’ authority was absolute. The centurion did not need much from the King of Kings – only that He speak the word, and he would have the things he needed. The centurion did not need to be convinced; his heart was already captivated by this Jesus, Who was the Living Word. He only needed to hear this One of great authority “speak the word”, and he knew it would be done. He needed no other proof. His eyes did not need to see the miracle – the word of authority was enough for him to call it done. Jesus said, “This is it; this is the faith!” Jesus was calling to every generation declaring, “This is how it works!” He said, “I have not found so great of faith in Israel” (Matthew 8:10). The authority of the Word, and our willingness to accept it and act on it, is a theme running throughout the Scripture. To move in this faith, we must be struck with the awesomeness and power of God – Who has authority to do anything He chooses. We must hear His Word telling us that He cares for us, and that He will do whatever we ask. In knowing Jesus and the authority of His Word, we can call it done (Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14-15; Acts 10:43; Galatians 3:2; Romans 4:17, 4:20-21; 2 Corinthians 1:20)! We have been given the unlimited provision of the Holy Spirit so Jesus may be fully revealed to us in a way the centurion could not have known. All we need to do is lift up our eyes towards Heaven and see Jesus. Look unto the Author and Finisher (Leader and Perfecter) of our faith, and know and believe His love. Awe will fill our hearts and great confidence in His love; and we will know that whatever we ask, He will do because He loves us so! Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Daily Bread 5/12/2022
