Friday after Reminiscere, 3/16/01

Romans 4: 18--20 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead--since he was about a hundred years old--and that Sarah's womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,

In the name of the One to Whom we give glory, amen.

It is a wonderful thing to watch a Japanese carpenter with his tools. He cares for them and sharpens them so that they will perform well in his hands. He will often spend more time sharpening a saw than he will spend in cutting with it. But when it cuts well, it brings glory to his name.

God sharpens us like a Japanese carpenter sharpens a saw or chisel. He takes great care in strengthening our faith through testing, so that we will bring Him glory. This is the purpose of our existence in everything we do, and when we live according to our purpose, we are happy and blessed both now and in eternity. Amen.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, You created us to know, love, and serve you. Forgive the times when we have sinned against you. Strengthen our faith and use us to bring glory to Your holy name, amen.