More and more I am convinced that faith is not some mystical thing that falls down on us at the point of salvation, or at any other time. I believe that faith is something we develop. One could have faith in anything. One could make anything a religion. Although the Bible says that God gives everyone a measure of faith, I think we choose what to put that faith toward. I can use my faith in any way I please. Many put most of their faith in science, many only put faith in the things that they can see or sense physically. The Word of God, of course, sternly warns us against this. The things we can see are only temporal, but the things we cannot see are eternal. The things which we can perceive with the physical senses were not made of things which are visible, but the worlds were framed by the word of God. We understand this by faith. (The above statement is a paraphrase of Hebrews 11:3). In Romans 1:20, Paul says, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse…” Earlier in the same chapter, he quotes an amazing truth that appears elsewhere in the Bible, “…as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith.’” Verses 16 and 17 read better together, though: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith.’” Wow, what a mouthful, however true.
So why is Paul not ashamed? Because he understands that the gospel (or, the good news) is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes. Then he says that, in this good news (or, the gospel of Christ), the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. This shows that faith is a progressive thing and capable of increasing or growing to a higher level. Not only is it something we must develop, but it is the very thing that we must live by. The just (or, the righteous) live by faith. Faith must be the motivation of our lives; the driving force of all of our motivations and decisions, all of our thoughts and attitudes. Therefore, let’s make sure that we are putting our faith in the Son of God and in everything that His word says. Let the word of Christ dwell richly in your hearts. He is the only source of truth. His word endures forever, count on it! Even as God gives us a measure of faith, we choose where to invest it. Every person has free will, including the option and ability to use all the gifts God gives him (or her) according to his own choosing. The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable, but you have to choose to submit to His will for you.
That being said, what is the difference between faith and belief? Here’s the difference, you can be in belief or in unbelief. You can be in faith, but you can’t be in un-faith. Why is this important? Because we need to have the realization that we are responsible for our faith. You already have it; realize it, nurture it, and put it in the right place. Faith is simply your spiritual eye. It’s the way you see the world, yourself, and others. If you put your faith in science or even religion or tradition, then it won’t only be a part of what you believe, it will become your god. It will be your lord, the deciding and governing force of your life. If you put your faith in Jesus and His word, then He will be your Lord. Don’t be deceived, it’s easy to have other lords besides Jesus in your life. Let’s remember that Jesus said you either gather or scatter, there is no middle ground. So why not sell out completely to Jesus once and for all? We honestly don’t have time to mess around with the Gospel.
Now then, what does it mean to fully surrender your life to Him? It means that nothing besides Holy Spirit and the Word of God will ever influence you again. In other words, nothing and no one will at any time drive your car or steer your vessel other than Jesus. It is more than believing that Jesus died and rose again. Of course He did, but what about the rest of Scripture? Although Jesus’ payment for sin and resurrection to life is the climax of the Gospel, it is surely not the end. It’s only the beginning. What does that mean for your life? Have you made Jesus an awesome, loving, and merciful savior who paid your debt and then went to heaven to be with the Father? Or have you made Him your Lord? There is a huge difference. If He is Lord, your life is changed forever; if He is only savior, then you’re the same person you were before your conversion, only you’re forgiven of your past life; yet you have no new life, no change. Lord and savior, of course, is the best way to relate to our King!
I am only beginning to take hold of this revelation and apply this truth to my life, but I will never be the same. That being said, it is not a complicated principle. It is simple: believe the Gospel, become a brand new person. This takes faith. Faith is where grace meets truth; you encounter Truth itself, you put all your faith in Him, and Grace Himself invades your heart and mind and you are forever changed and for the better. Jesus is said to be full of grace and truth in John’s writing. He wants to make you full of Himself. Paul prayed for the early church to be filled with all the fullness of God, by knowing the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge. Isn’t that insane?! Consider what this truth means for you today. What will you do with it? Faith is a gift from God, but it is yours. Not your mom’s, your dad’s, nor does it belong to your grandpa or grandma. What are you going to do with it? Embrace truth and your faith in Jesus and His word will overtake your heart and thought life, and you’ll live your life from a totally clear and pure motivation; you’ll have understanding and know how to respond. Ultimately, this simply means that Christ in you will be governing your life instead of your flesh. Wouldn’t that be awesome?! I believe it’s possible for you today.
Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. If anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach. Come on, this thing is simple! However, it’s only available if you’re willing to be childlike and just believe it. Here is the Bible definition of faith, it is: “…the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen” (Hebrews 11:1). Take a few moments and ask God what that means for you. It’s impossible to please God without faith. I’ll leave you with this passage from Galatians: “For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain” (Galatians 2:19-21).
God bless you!
Reece
