Five weeks ago we began a study of the valuable contribution that young people can and are making to the cause of New Testament Christianity and how we as adults should respond to their efforts. Today is post number six.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).
There is no Bible believing, Christ-exalting, God-revering person in the world who questions the validity or the necessity of faith pertaining to one’s relationship with God. Faith is one of the few universal acknowledgements of anyone who calls himself or herself a Christian. Passages like John 8:24; Mark 16:16; 1 John 5:4; and John 3:16 have left a clear enough impression that the importance of faith is virtually unquestioned.
However, too often the notion these people have of faith is far removed from Bible faith. The assumption that it is merely an inward thought or emotion without any outward results takes away from the practical purpose of faith in our lives.
James adamantly taught that faith without works is dead, being alone (James 2:14,26). That isn’t meant to be a threat as much as it is meant to encourage and motivate us to use our faith to truly transform our lives in every conceivable way. That is what faith is supposed to do. It will transform us (Romans 12:2). It develops within us a Christ-like spirit of humility, service, and sacrifice (Philippians 2:5). And that faith will leave an indelible impact not only on our own lives but on the lives of those around us. Even where there is disagreement people respect earnest conviction. Thus we can leave quite the influence in people’s lives if we simply believe – but only because of what faith will also naturally develop in our lives.
- Faith will develop peace. Paul talked about the development of faith in the lives of the Philippians and how its practice will result in “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
- Faith will develop patience. Romans 5:1ff discusses the natural consequences of faith in our lives. Being justified by faith we develop certain qualities that are essential to the Christian life including patience (Romans 5:3-4).
- Faith will develop purpose. It requires faith to be able to conclude, as did Solomon, that all of life is about fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Life isn’t wrapped up in self; it’s wrapped up in the Savior.
These qualities not only help to develop the inward man into what God wants us to be. They leave a lasting impression on those around us of what Christianity can just as easily do in their lives. If we want our profiting to appear to all and have an eternal impact on those around us we must be an example of the believers in faith.
-Andy Brewer