So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.1
It helps to habitually start the day chewing on the bible, being silent, meditating, remembering the goodness of God. Weekly, we likewise are strengthened, encouraged, and comforted2 during our small group meetings. Also, we meet together3 with fellow believers to listen to the Word being preached. There is an unexplainable boost that occurs—a peace that goes beyond understanding.4 Only in hindsight do I now say that it took a decision, a leap of faith, to order one’s day based on what is important and not the urgent tug of this world. Am thankful that my family belongs to a church that is Christ centered, bible believing, and Holy Spirit empowered.
It takes faith to sustain a walk that is so counter cultural. With the decision to follow Jesus comes others who revile you, persecute you, and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely. Yet, I rejoice and am glad, knowing that my reward is great!5
It is not being presumptive; rather certain. The bible clearly defines faith. Now, faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.6 It is recognizing the present realities yet not being cowed by it for I am able to hold on to a promise. It is finished.7
For quite some time now, my wife and I have been involved in discipleship, particularly revolving around family—marriage and parenting. For a time even our son and daughter were involved in Kids Church; it was a team effort. We have been faithfully meeting with engaged or married couples in homes, restaurants, coffee shops, wherever time and space permitted. The terminologies may have evolved—Cell Group, D12, Small Group, now Victory Group, but the intent remains the same—to walk with people and inch them closer to God. Presently, we likewise do Blueprint for Marriage and the Heart of Parenting. We do so since we are commissioned8 to do so.
Yet if asked, “Is it because of the things we do for the Kingdom that we have the assurance of salvation?” Definitely not. Our works has no bearing. We cannot add to what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the good and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.9
Love for the body of Christ10 is merely a fruit11 and not the justification for our salvation. And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and rewards those who seek him.12 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”13
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.14
Notes:
1. 2 Corinthians 5:6-9
2. 1 Corinthians 14:3
3. Hebrews 10:23-25
4. Philippians 4:6-7
5. Matthew 5:11-12
6. Hebrews 11:1
7. John 19:30
8. Matthew 28:18-20
9. Titus 3:3-7
10. 1 Corinthians 12:27
11. Galatians 5:22-24
12. Hebrews 11:6
13. John 20:29
14. Philippians 1:9-11
