Faith (why is it important?)

Last updated on: May 17, 2023 at 5:39 pm by Dr. Andy McDaniel

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Faith (why is it important?) 2023-05-17T17:39:38-04:00 Dr. Andy McDaniel

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Familiar
The word (Faith) is a familiar one. Indeed, we probably find it used in the church world most often. However, we also hear the word (Faith) used when describing a world religion. In addition, Faith is also a popular name for girls. So, like many things in our world, we see multiple uses for a single word.

James 5:15
“And the prayer of Faith shall save the sick; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”

Questions

However, as with most things, practical application is where the “rubber meets the road,” if you will. The practice of Faith, simply meaning we actually believe, is where things get slightly strained. In this passage, we see the “prayer of Faith” or “believing prayer,” which gives us the key to this thought.

When you pray, do you believe it? I realize this sounds like a strange question, but think about it. We learn to pray about stuff; it may be a sick loved one, a tragic situation, or something personal. As believers, we immediately find ourselves drawn to prayer regardless of what it is about. It becomes a routine, and in such cases, prayer is undoubtedly a great habit to have. However, the issue is whether we believe that prayer. Or is it simply the right thing to do?

In other words, is it just words, or do you believe that God hears you and will answer? This action is where Faith comes in. The term “faith” means belief in something or someone trustworthy. There is nothing or no one in this life that will ever be more trustworthy than the Lord. As believers, we must hold fast to that fact, but do we allow that belief, that Faith, to fuel our prayer life?

In John 6:69, Jesus has been asking questions of the Disciples; Peter answers Him and states:

“We believe and are sure you are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”

Thoughts

Such a statement must be more than words; it must be complete, covered, and wrapped in Faith. Everything we do in this life grows with our confidence in Who He is and what He has done for us.

As the days ahead unfold, as life is a struggle at times, be reminded of the word “Faith” and ask yourself:

Do I have it, do I really believe it, and if so, am I living it out?

Relationship verses Religion

In my ministry, God has made it clear that relationship is the key to it all. In other words, if we do not honestly know Him, we do not grow in Him. So, moving from mere religion to relationship allows us to see things more clearly. When our vision improves, we also experience sharper hearing.

To act upon our Faith, we must first believe in what we claim to be our foundation, and I mean believe without any doubts. If we are uncertain about the ability of what we build on or stand on, then we must correct that before effectively moving forward.

Challenge

Why do you believe? Allow our Lord to help you see the need for knowing Him deeper so that your Faith impacts your life and those around you.

Have a blessed day, everyone.

Pastor Andy

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