Growing in Faith

How grateful I am and how I praise the Lord that you are helping me again. I know you have always been anxious to send what you could, but for a while you didn't have the chance. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have leaned the secret of contentment in every situation, whether it be a full stomach or hunger, plenty or want; for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power. Philippians 4:10-13 (TLB)

Gillian Tettmar lives in England. She finds driving their motor home extremely scary. She worries that she will misjudge the size of the vehicle while driving around roundabouts, along narrow roads, and in congested areas. However, she stills drives the vehicle, both to share the driving with her husband and so that she knows how to drive it in case of an emergency. Each time she does it, she prays, "Lord, I can't do this. Will you please drive in my place?" After this prayer, Gillian doesn't drive perfectly or feel totally calm, but she senses God's presence - and that God is enabling her to do what she cannot do in her own strength. She still makes mistakes while driving, but she learns from them and hopefully becomes a better driver.

Gillian thinks this is one of the ways God enables her to grow in her faith. Jesus compared the kingdom of God to a tiny mustard seed that was planted and grew into a tree so big that birds could perch in its branches. (See Matt. 13:31-35.) Perhaps challenging situations help us grow by strengthening our faith and helping us to trust in God. As I grow in faith , I see more of my prayers answered, and so God's kingdom grows.

Prayer: Dear God, help our faith to grow through all the challenges we face today. Thank you for your unfailing presence, in Jesus' name. Amen.