Receive

Today is day 2 of our fast. Let's continue our study of exhale. Breathing is an intrinsic biological process that includes inhalation and exhalation. We inhale oxygen from the atmosphere and we exhale waste gas such as carbon dioxide from our body. Each inhalation is a spontaneous act of receiving oxygen from the environment around us. 

Yesterday we explored the exhalation of God which is naphach in Hebrew. Firstly, let us consider our heart posture when receiving the breath of life God graciously gives us. In order for us to experience the soul renewal and restoration that God provides we have to position our hearts to receive. Similar to the provision of oxygen with each inhalation, we are tasked with receiving the Word of God, for "as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God." (John 1:12) Our reception of God and His truth informs our life state. 

Now receiving the Word may seem quite simple, but true reception requires a particular posture that surpasses hearing. Often times we allow our understanding of our circumstances to dictate our perception and heart posture. Paul wrote "trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding." (Philippians 3:5) The word trust in this passage is batah in Hebrew which means to have confidence, to be secure, to feel safe. In order for security in God to develop we must first determine that we believe the Word and therefore ultimately receive it. The reception of this is the catalyst of our faith journey. When we truly receive our behavior follows, we become vessels of honorable use and we produce fruit consistent with repentance. 

Let us all assess where our reception lies. Do I receive your Word Lord? Is the reception of Your word informing my life and spiritual maturation? Are there areas for growth? Are there areas of my life that I fail to submit because of a lack of belief in Your word?

Take your time and honestly answer each question. Bring your answers to the Lord. Ask the Lord to breathe new life into areas that you may have become discouraged in or that you are unsure, confused, or frustrated about. And ask the Lord to lead you in finding scriptures that will encourage you to believe and receive His word. Pray each scripture out loud.

Mark 9:24

"Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!"

John 11:40

"Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?"

Hebrews 11:6

"And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."


As you pray today, consider where you may be exercising doubt. Confess your unbelief and may God give you new perspective and understanding of His goodness. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father, He is your refuge.



 

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