March 29, 2022 – “Half-Hearted Faith”

“They rose early in the morning and went up to the heights of the hill country, saying, “Here we are. We will go up to the place that the Lord has promised, for we have sinned.” But Moses said, “Why do you continue to transgress the command of the Lord? That will not succeed. Do not go up, for the Lord is not with you; do not let yourselves be struck down before your enemies. For the Amalekites and the Canaanites will confront you there, and you shall fall by the sword; because you have turned back from following the Lord, the Lord will not be with you.” But they presumed to go up to the heights of the hill country, even though the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and Moses, had not left the camp. Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in that hill country came down and defeated them, pursuing them as far as Hormah.” Numbers 14:40-45

“Half-Hearted Faith”

When we follow G-d’s command reluctantly and give a half-hearted response to G-d’s calling, is it any wonder that we often find little success? The people Israel, after learning that they have once again incurred G-d’s wrath, they decide to invade the land hoping to avoid G-d’s wrath rather than trusting that the Lord will provide. Even though they are warned to avoid this course of action, they decide to launch an attack and are soundly defeated. Their hearts were not in the attack, and thus they have no chance of success.

We are reminded that when we heed G-d’s calling – even if we are fearful – we need to trust in the Lord. Discernment is often a painful, lonely process, bringing fear of what following G-d might bring, and fear of what might happen if we do not follow. Trusting G-d will not always remove our fear. But trust in G-d can sustain us through those times of uncertainty.

Going through life with a “half-hearted faith” is no way to follow Jesus. Just because we might have some questions does not mean that we do not have faith. I believe that the person who has more questions often has a stronger faith, for in seeking answers to their questions, they often find more information to strengthen their faith.

Can we afford to go through life with faith that does not require any questions?

Let us pray,

Lord Jesus, following you is hard enough, even if we know that all of our questions will not be answered. But that does not give us license to follow you half-heartedly. Give me your spirit today so I may follow with all of my heart, mind and strength. Amen.

Pastor Dave