A Faith That Survives

A Faith That Survives

Written by Katelyn Foster

The first spring in our new home was an adventure.

It felt like every few days we discovered perennial flowers that we didn’t know were there. Out of the quiet dark earth, life was emerging. I usually refer to it as new life, but really, life was there all along. It’s simply new growth on previously rooted plants. We see it evidenced in the seasons. There are seasons where the growth is internal; unseen, but active. And then comes spring, when the sun gives an invitation to reach and stretch toward the light.

The growth that has been active in the earth is evidenced in the color of a new bud. The sun invites, and the plant responds. A new bud on an already rooted plant… just as it always was, but now brought to the surface.

As I was reading through Daniel, there was a phrase that stuck out to me and made me stop and think.

“Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.” Daniel 6:10

Daniel’s life is often defined by 3 main focal moments. It’s easy to forget that lots of life was lived in the in-between, preparing him for those life-defining occasions. At some point, Daniel chose to set up a pattern of behavior for his day-to-day life, and began to faithfully lay a foundation that would hold firm in new seasons.

So when Daniel’s king threatened death by lions to anyone who worshipped anything other than himself, Daniel didn’t blink. The faith he fed in times of peace held firm in times of persecution. Daniel continued faithfully in what he had always done, growing toward the Son.

When hardship and trials came to Daniel, there’s 2 things that didn’t change: his patterns and his prayers.

HIS PATTERNS:
Daniel committed to praying 3 times a day. He did it in times of peace, and in times of persecution. He made communication with God a rhythm which he built his day upon.

HIS PRAYERS:
Daniel set up a habit of not only making requests, but also dedicating time to reflect and rejoice in what God had done. What a testimony that He never abandoned his pattern of thanksgiving, even when life seemed so terrifying!

The habits Daniel set up in the quiet seasons of growth revealed themselves when he was called into the spotlight. Who he was in the winter, was who he was in the spring.

When trials come, what is revealed about us?  Daniel was tested, and what was revealed was a product of his faithfulness for growth and a pursuit of His God.

What are some patterns you can commit to that will help strengthen you when trials come? Dormant plants aren’t dead, they’re preparing for what is to come. Spring is coming.

Are you ready?

Add Your Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *