Where's Your Faith?

The Bible tells us how we are to develop character and spiritual maturity. It starts with FAITH. That might seem simple if you believe in God you have faith right? I have learned a lot over the last couple years as God has been working in the dark places of myself and digging into the Bible to find my answers, while writing my book Perspective. One thing that stands out to me the most is that sometimes we think we have faith, and maybe we do, but it is often weaker than we think it is.

I learned that although I can say that I believe in Jesus, do I really have a strong faith in Him? Faith that God is in control of our circumstances? Faith that God has a plan for my life bigger than I can even imagine? Faith that Jesus loves me more than I can comprehend? Faith that although I will experience trials, hard days, persecution, sickness, oppression, and even death, it is all worth it if it brings glory to God? Faith that when this life is over the temporary comforts and pleasures that I seek are meaningless and the actions I have taken to advance the gospel will have eternal impact?

Let’s start with FAITH. It takes time to grow your faith. Your faith really grows through the whole process discussed in 2 Timothy. So how much faith do you need to start? Start with this. You are deeply loved by your heavenly creator. He knew you and had a plan for you before you were born. You were born into this sinful world as a prisoner to selfishness, sinfulness and corruption. God in His gracious character sent His son Jesus to set you free. You are no longer a slave to your sinful desires and you have been given the mind of Christ. Can you have faith that this is true?

Friend, take some time to think about those truths. Really think about them. Close your eyes and picture them. Allow them to soak into your heart and your understanding. We will start tomorrow to learn how your faith and character can grow from here.

Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending your son Jesus to die on the cross to redeem me. Thank you that you know where I am, you love me with more depth than I even understand. Lord help me to fully embrace your love for me and my love for you. Grow my faith through this process, making me more like Jesus.