How is Your Flame of Faith?
Is your flame of faith burning brightly? Are you awed and overwhelmed by the scope and power of a God that created the universe, and personally loves you and me? Why wouldn’t I want to have confidence in the Great Designer once I answer the question, “Does God really exist?” Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. Hebrews 11:1-2 (35th Anniversary key verse #23)
Faith can be defined as: a strongly held belief/conviction; optimism; and a confidence in someone or something. Last week I wrote about Faith, Trust and Obedience (FTO). This week the focus is Faith. For 45 years I have believed the truth based on revelations from the Word, others, experiences and insights from the Holy Spirit.
It is Faith in Someone which has sustained me through times of job loss, financial hardship, personal and family challenges. Faith in God means I believe in the power of the greatest commandment: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. Matthew 22:37-39. Faith in our Lord is a precursor to love, and love applied to any situation brings hope. Active faith moves from the head to the heart.
I have faith in the words of Jesus which encourage me to engage life with purpose: “I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. Faith in the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit means I never have to be a victim, jealous or self-seeking. Direction, encouragement, service to others and miracles have been part of that faith walk.
Acknowledging the Creator is a very big deal. My intent is that faith will be the driver of my values and everything I do in life. I have wavered in application at times but never in commitment. Faith in God allows me to keep focus on His character and promises and lifts me above the “world, flesh and Satan” which seek to distract.
I have encountered many men and women who have seen their flame of faith reduced to a pilot light resulting in lack of hope and apathy. How I try to keep faith vibrant:
- Bible: Read and Study the Word for life application
- Pray: alone; with spouse; with a trusted friend; with a small group of believers
- Thoughts: anticipate that God will direct and act in our plans (Romans 12:1-4)
- Remember: where God has moved over and over again in our lives. Record /review answers to prayer and past experiences where God’s hand was evident.
I am trusting that this message will reach one person who is ready to begin or renew their relationship with the God of the Universe. Have a great walk of faith today and keep the flame alive..
