“Faith is not something you have; it is something you practice.”

I wish this wisdom originated from my brain, but it didn’t. I found this statement written in my Bible–something a younger me wrote either a few weeks, or months, or years ago. The inked words were carefully written above Daniel 3–the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego.

Now that’s a story. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego miraculously survived a fiery furnace. Jesus walked around in the fire with them, and they climbed out of the flames unharmed.

That should be my favorite part of the story, but it isn’t. I love their faith. Listen to what they said to King Nebuchadnezzar who threatened their fiery death if they didn’t bow down to his idol:

“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up” (Daniel 3:16-18).

Now that my friends is faith.

Their faith was not in God’s protection or action–though they believed He could save them. Their faith was placed in who God was and is.

The One true God.

[tweetability]If our faith depends on our petitions answered, we will become disenchanted with prayer and question God’s goodness [/tweetability]

 

I know because I’ve been there.

Have you? Has an unanswered prayer quenched your faith?

If so, how did you come back to “practicing” your faith?

I would love to dialogue about this with you. Your comments encourage me and others. Maybe you’re struggling with this right now. Share your struggles.

I’ve missed you my friends. Thanks for your prayers, grace, patience, and letting me know you’ve missed the blog. The manuscript is now in the hands of the publisher . . . well, actually, I visualize it in the hands of God.

I hope this week’s Bite of Bread encourages your faith. I needed it.

 

 

Okay . . . gather your journal and Bible, light a candle, pour your coffee or tea. And sit with the One who loves you. Let His words strengthen you.

 

 

 

Please feel free to share my images on your social media. I only ask that you leave my website on the image. Join us on our Facebook fellowship page too. We’ll be discussing the “bites” everyday.

Much Love,

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