SCRIPTURE: NEHEMIAH 2:2
“And the king said to me, ‘why is your face sad, seeing you are not sick? This is nothing but sadness of the heart.’”
OBSERVATION:
Our desires play an important role in the development of our faith. It is almost impossible to really believe God for something great that you don’t passionately desire business. But had no desire whatsoever to build it? The answer to that is probably, “No.” Why? Because people have faith for the things that light up their hearts with desire. Nehemiah was no different. He had such a strong desire to help the people in Jerusalem that he could not hide it. It was all over his face, and everyone could see it. If we are ever going to do something great for God, it has to become our greatest desire – a desire that is all over our face and is carried in our hearts. If we as people don’t desire to stretch in generosity, then we probably never will. It is very hard to ask God for a miracle in your finances, work or family that you don’t desire with all of your heart. The book of Psalms 37:4 says:
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
As we delight ourselves in God and His work, we will find the desires of our heart align with His. This is the starting point of faith: a strong desire to serve God with all your heart.
APPLICATION
Do you desire to make a difference? Do you desire to be generous? If you do, it should be written all over your face. It should become one of the greatest priorities of your life. Take time to evaluate your desires, and ask yourself, “Do my desires align with the heart of God?” If they do, then you are at the starting point of faith. Begin to pray bold prayers.
PRAYER
“Jesus, I desire to make an impact during The Story Initiative faith journey. Help me to carry your heart and your desires. Fill my heart with passion to reach the lost. May my heart burn with desire to serve you and believe you for something great.”