A COMPASSION REVOLUTION
All You Need is … Faith?
What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. James 2:14-17 (NASB)
“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.” I have heard these kinds of quotes all my life and my guess is you have too. These types of “faith statements” are filled with truth that are important to hear. However, not understood in a Biblical context can distort their meaning and actually do harm. Let me explain.
In this “faith statement”, we see several elements: dreams, achievement, faith, vision, hard work, and determination. All of which are important in life especially if one is trying live up to their God given potential. However, the two statements that give me great trouble if they are not understood in a Biblical context are “faith and belief in yourself” and “all things are possible for those who believe”. The premise of this statement is permeated with faith so it would be helpful to understand what faith is.
The Bible says in Hebrews 11:1 (NASB) that faith is “… is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Faith is absolutely essential in our relationship with God. Moreover, Paul continues by saying in 11:6 that “… without faith it is impossible to please Him …” Faith in its simplest form is trust. When we trust God, no matter what happens, we honor Him. The context of faith in the Bible is always faith in God, trusting God. Paul reminds us in Romans 8:28 (NASB) “… that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
As we look back at the “faith statement”, we begin to realize that understanding this saying without proper context will lead people into a false security thinking belief in … whatever is sufficient. It has never been nor will ever be. In our self-centered world, we make everything about us. As Christians, we understand that it is all about Him! Our faith must be in God! Anything else is a trap.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord,
Help me to place my faith in You and You alone. No matter what may happen today, I know that You will help me through it to achieve Your purpose. I want my life to be pleasing to You. In Jesus Name, Amen.