I have faith. Some might say I have “blind” faith. They may even say that I simply want to believe in something. But, that’s not true! Actually I have a very strong foundation for my faith. In fact, God doesn’t expect us to believe without any evidence, knowledge or proof.
Many people “feel” that they have faith but can’t really explain why. But our faith should be based on fact……not feeling. We need knowledge for our faith to grow strong. God has not left us with only a human feeling as the basis for our faith.
If you aren’t studying God’s Word, you may feel that that you’re not really growing in your faith. Increasing your knowledge will strengthen the foundation of your faith.
Here are some examples of what God has provided for us to grow in knowledge, therefore growing in faith:
The Old Testament
The ancient Jews kept meticulous records of the history of the Jewish people, events, genealogies, teachings and prophecies. Their scribes diligently and carefully copied the Scriptures and passed them on from generation to generation. I own copies of these carefully protected documents! They make up the Old Testament of my Bible.
Have you examined what has been recorded in the Old Testament?
Prophecies
Over 300 prophecies were fulfilled in the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. (Wow!) Some were spoken by ancient prophets almost 800 years before Christ was born. I have read these prophecies because they are included in my Bible!
Did you know that Jesus fulfilled Old Testament messianic prophecies?
Witnesses
The New Testament contains eyewitness accounts from people who walked with Jesus, saw His miracles, and even saw Jesus after He rose from the grave. These letters and epistles were carefully recorded, copied and circulated to the early Christian churches. I have studied these eyewitness accounts for myself because I have them in my Bible.
Have you read the eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection?
The New Testament
The councils that determined which books would be included in the New Testament carefully ensured that letters and writings would meet important criteria. Nothing was included unless it was written by an apostle or someone who was closely connected to an apostle. The doctrine had to adhere to the Apostle’s teaching and be determined to be inspired by God.
Did you know that the Bible was written by 40 authors over the course of over 1500 years?
Preaching
The good news of the Gospel has been preached for over 2,000 years. The same message of salvation by grace through faith continues to save people and equip them to further the mission of Christ. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:2 that we are saved by the preaching of the Gospel, if we “hold firmly to the word” that is preached.
Romans 10:17 says, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.“
Testimonies
Countless Believers over the course of thousands of years have provided their testimonies of how God has changed their lives. I know quite a few of these changed lives …. and I am one of them! As Jesus promised to Believers, He has given us the Holy Spirit to guide and change us.
Are you one of the Believers who can testify that God has changed you by the power of the Holy Spirit?
Fellowship
We are strengthened when we worship, study and pray with other Believers. Over the centuries Christians have overcome doubt and despair by meeting with Believers. Christian fellowship is so powerful that Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “Where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.”
Are you involved with a church and do you study the Bible and pray with other Believers?
And Finally….
Nature
Even without the Bible and eyewitnesses we have proof in nature that a powerful, loving and wise God exists. This divine and infinite Artist has provided His own complex and amazing creation as proof of His existence.
Did you know that God’s power and majesty are evident in nature, so that men are “without excuse?” Romans 1:20
My faith is not an unsubstantiated, frail hope. It is based on evidence, testimonies and changed lives.
Are you growing in faith? God has provided so many ways for us to strengthen and increase our faith…… and knowledge!
Laurie Driesen 