Great Expectations

So Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through 

the word of Christ.

(Romans 10:17)

We often leave town over the summer weekends. Soon, school schedules will prevent the luxury of these impromptu excursions. It dawned on me that, although I enjoy the spontaneity of our summer jaunts, I miss worshiping with fellow believers and miss time spent in God's Word. My faith is strengthened when I read, listen to and understand the Word of Christ.

Does "hearing" in Romans 10: 17 refer to physical listening? Can I merely hear or read His Word and acquire faith? Christ said, "I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. (Matthew 13:13)

 Hearing refers to spiritual discernment. We can read or listen to the Word of Christ, but listening does not always result in faith. Faith is given to us by God, and faith enables us to understand, hear and see what God's Spirit teaches: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)

 With the Spirit's guidance, Christ speaks to us in His Word and uses it to teach us, correct us and build our faith and walk with Him. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16) With God's help, we will read His Word and understand its purpose (Isaiah 55:11).

Although we cannot give ourselves faith, and we cannot discern God's Word without His Spirit, we can make time with God a priority.  And so, I pray that you and I will be strengthened in our faith through His Word.