I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.1
I often say, “Understand the why and the how becomes easier.” Many do good works (not that it is wrong) like good deeds, sacrifice, even philanthropy. But if the motive for such works is to win favor from the Lord then it may come as a surprise that if done without faith, all our righteous acts are like filthy rags!2 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.3 There is no shame of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, . . . For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”4
What then is faith? Is it some wishful thinking, or positivism? Is it anything we conjure up? Fortunately, it is defined for us clearly—Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.5 How then do we gain faith? Or how do we grow in faith? Paul explains, So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.6 James encourages us, Count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.7
Consider this event, after Jesus was baptized by John to fulfill the requirements of the law, the Spirit of God descended like a dove and rested on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.8 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.9 “Woe to the world for temptations to sin!” For it is necessary that temptations come, . . .10
Be of good courage! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.11 For thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out.12
Notes:
1. Psalm 16:7-8
2. Isaiah 64:6 NIV
3. Hebrews 11:6
4. Romans 1:16-17
5. Hebrews 11:1
6. Romans 10:17
7. James 1:2-4
8. Matthew 3:13-17
9. Matthew 4:1
10. Matthew 18:7
11. Psalm 100:5
12. Ezekiel 34:11
