Morning Dew
Key Passage: Matthew 8:5-13
Key Word: Matthew 8:8 – “But only speak a word”
Integrity is a rare human quality. In a recent conversation with some friends, one of the guys asked why it is that people of seeming integrity always seem to compromise and lose their footing once they ascend the dizzying heights of power and popularity. Many reasons were advanced in support of these ‘fallen’ giants, but none of the reasons really satisfied. I think we can simply say these people lacked integrity and lest we sound sanctimonious, we were clear we all would probably follow them into the same ignominy, except we receive a dose of strong grace from God. Integrity among other things, means a person will do what they say regardless of the personal costs. They would be held accountable to what they say. Let me say again, that this is a rare human quality.
This is why I believe God demands faith from us. In our confused and unregenerate minds we forget that God is not a man, that He should lie. We forget that God means what He says and says what He means. God is not a joker or at all frivolous. When He speaks, He backs up everything He says with His unalloyed integrity. That’s why those who want to walk with Him, must learn how to absolutely trust His word.
In today’s story, we read of a Centurion who came to Jesus and asked for his servant to be healed. Jesus offered to go with him to his house and heal his servant, but the Centurion asked Jesus not to bother coming. He instead requested that Jesus just speak the word and he knows his servant will be healed. “The centurion answered and said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.”
The Centurion had absolute faith and confidence in the words of Jesus. He knew that His word is law. It cannot but be fulfilled. This statement caused Jesus to marvel. I believe Jesus was really impressed with this man’s faith, that He said this was “great faith”.
Hebrews 11:6 says “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him”
May I suggest that God is impressed, when He finds people on the earth who absolutely trust His word and fully expect His promises to be fulfilled in their lives. Why would we really doubt God? Why would we distrust His word? Why do we doubt? Really if one takes time to consider God’s record and who God is, then we really have no business doubting Him. His word created the heavens and the earth. His word upholds the entire creation. His word is absolute integrity and if you trust His word, then you are a person of faith.
Why Faith? I believe God is always looking for people on earth who would trust His word. Pure and simple. Are you one?
Let’s Pray: Father God, forgive me for ever doubting your word. You are not like men whose words cannot be trusted. Please give me grace to always trust your word and stand on your promises. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.