Devotional: Walk by Faith

(Read Romans 8) “What shall we say to these things? If God be for us, who is against us?” (Rom. 8:31, NASB).

There are many circumstances in our lives that require us to be courageous. When we have courage we are willing to take a risk to accomplish something. The late Muhammad Ali said, “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.” Mr. Ali had the courage to refuse to be inducted into the military because of his religious beliefs and his moral and ethical principles. When he refused to take the oath of induction he knew that he was risking his boxing heavyweight title. He took the risk believing that ultimately he would be victorious in his desire to bring about change in America. Ultimately, he regained the title and he became a great humanitarian who extended a helping hand to those that he saw in need. In Romans 8 Paul tells his audience of the many risks and hardships that he has encountered as he traveled to preach the Gospel throughout Asia Minor and Europe. Paul suffers much, but he is certain of the victory that is waiting for those who put their hope in Jesus. He is sure that nothing “is able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” Rom. 8:39, NASB). Therefore we should never shy away from the opportunities that God gives us. We do not fear the opposition because of our own limitations. Instead, we seize each opportunity as we “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7, NASB). Lord, give us the courage to take advantage of the opportunities that you give to us. Let our faith and hope is in you alone. Amen.