In English we have a lot of words for “believe” (“think,” “feel,” and “know” are just a few). But the Greek language (the language of the New Testament) has just one word for “believe” (“pisteuo,” pronounced peh-STEW-oh). This Greek word means believing with everything you’ve got—to the point where believing actually changes your behavior. Think of it this way: If you really believe in aerodynamics, you’ll be willing to fly in a plane. If you believe in buoyancy, you’ll get in a boat. If you believe in Jesus, you will _____________________ . The Scripture in this devo will help you complete that sentence.
1. Digging In (God, Show Me!)
As you read the verses below, do a couple things to notice detail (you may want to print out these verses):
- Highlight the word “believe” whenever you see it (if you’ve printed out, draw a lightbulb over the word).
- Highlight anything that sounds like a promise (if you’ve printed out, draw a rainbow).
John 5:24 (NIV)
24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”
Romans 10:8-11 (NIV)
8 But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.”
After you’ve read the passages, look back at references to the word “believe” (light bulbs) and make a short list of what you’ve been asked to believe.
Now look at anything that sounds like a promise (rainbows) and write down anything God promises to those who believe.
2. Taking It Inward (God, Teach Me!)
What do you believe “in your heart” about Jesus?
Of all the promises you just saw, which one speaks the loudest to you?
3. Seal the Deal (God, Change Me!)
Reread the info about the word “believe” in the opening paragraph of this devotional. Then think about this question:
How is my belief in Jesus changing my behavior?
Pray about this next question. Journal any thoughts that come to mind as you pray.
What behaviors of mine (actions, attitudes, or words) leave no doubt in the minds of people around me that I truly believe?
Finally, to return to the unfinished sentence at the beginning of this devo, complete this sentence:
Because I believe in Jesus, I will ______________________ (insert action).
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