Devotional: How We Grow— Game Changing Trust
Scripture:
"When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, 'Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.'" – Matthew 8:10 (NIV)
Reflection:
Growth is something we admire in every area of life. Whether it's developing a skill, advancing in a career, or becoming a better person, growth is ingrained in our nature. But how do we measure growth in our faith? How do we know we are becoming more like Christ?
Faith is more than simply believing that God exists. It is a deep, abiding trust that He is involved in the details of our lives, even when we cannot see the evidence. Many people believe in a higher power, but fewer live with the certainty that God is present and working for their good in every circumstance. This kind of faith—faith that persists beyond doubt and hardship—is what truly transforms lives.
The centurion in Matthew 8 displayed an extraordinary faith that caught Jesus' attention. His belief was not just theoretical; it was active and unwavering. He understood authority and recognized that Jesus' power was not limited by physical proximity. He trusted that Jesus could heal with just a word. This level of trust reflects a heart that fully relies on God's sovereignty, rather than needing to see proof before believing.
So often, we struggle to trust God in the same way. We may acknowledge His power, yet we still try to control situations, worry about the future, or doubt His goodness when we face trials. True faith invites us to rest in the assurance that God is at work, even when we do not understand how or why. It is a faith that allows us to surrender our fears and anxieties, knowing that He sees the bigger picture and holds our lives in His hands.
When we develop a faith like the centurion’s, we begin to experience the peace and confidence that come from trusting God completely. We are no longer driven by fear or uncertainty but instead, move forward with assurance that He is guiding us. This kind of faith does not mean life will always be easy, but it does mean that we will never walk through difficulties alone. God is present, attentive, and faithful.
Reflection Questions:
Do you tend to measure your faith by your actions, or by your trust in God?
When have you struggled to believe that God is personally involved in your life?
How can you grow in faith like the centurion—trusting Jesus even when you don’t see immediate results?
Prayer:
Father, I want to trust You completely. Help me to believe that You are present and active in every detail of my life. Strengthen my faith so that even in hard times, I know You are walking with me. Let my confidence in You grow so that my life reflects Your love and goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Additional Resources:
Read Matthew 8:5-13 and reflect on the centurion’s faith.
Watch the Bible Project video: The Reason You Can Trust God (Even When It Seems Risky)
Watch Trusting God in Difficult Times - Psalm 91 Meditation by Tim Keller
