Writing On Eagles Wings

Scripture: “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” – I Thessalonians 5:21

Examination: Paul is writing to the believers in Thessalonica. In this chapter, he begins with a reference to the “day of the Lord”. This is a time when God directly intervenes with mankind to judge sin and provide deliverance. While Paul is referring to a future time of judgement, he instructs the Thessalonian Christians on how they should live in the present. One particular specification in which he cautions them is to question those who claim to know spiritual things and to prove that what they say is indeed the truth of Scripture.

Application: As a middle school teacher, I encouraged my students to question concepts that I taught in the classroom. One important rule was to ask respectfully, but any question was welcomed, and if I didn’t know the answer, I promised to find it for them.

Blanketly trusting what a person tells you simply because he or she stands in the front of a classroom or behind a pulpit is dangerous, yet so many people will assume that if a person is in a position to instruct, they must be completely credible. This is not necessarily so.

When it comes to biblical teachings, Christians must exercise wisdom. The Bible tells us in 1 John 4:1, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” This means that we should not blindly accept everything we are taught in regard to godly things. So how do we “try the spirits”? There are two primary ways.

The first and most important method is to go to the source… the Bible. Acts 17:11 gives the example of the Bereans. “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Any teaching from a church service, Sunday school class, Bible study group, etc., must be in 100% agreement with what Scripture says. We are never to skew the Bible to meet our own personal theology. 2 Peter 1:20 states, “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” God’s Word is His Word, not man’s word. It is to be accepted as such without need to adhere to cultural philosophies, personal beliefs, or church traditions. However, it often requires preaching and teaching for us to understand biblical concepts, which is why God has given certain individuals, like pastors or teachers, the ability to present the Word of God to others.

The second way is to ask questions. When I don’t understand a biblical concept, I know I can go to my pastor. He always takes the time to help me understand those things that I don’t quite grasp, and he always uses the Scripture to support what he explains to me. Additionally, he shares reference materials with me when I am studying a particular biblical topic so that I can dig a little deeper on my own. Because he supports his explanations with Bible passages or verses, I can always rely on his help. Occassionally, there are some answers that cannot be found verbatim in the Bible, and a good pastor will always point out how he arrives at a particular response that is logically derived from the Word of God.

Both of these methods require prayer for God’s wisdom and for His Holy Spirit to provide understanding. God will not condemn you for asking Him questions. Even that forbidden question of “Why?”. However, we must also remember that sometimes the Lord doesn’t answer immediately, and for those questions, we simply have to wait on God and trust His Word, for He promises that in due time, “… all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” It is not always easy, but it is a vital part of our spiritual growth.

Lastly, if you’re going to ask a question, be willing to accept the answers you get. Have an open mind and allow the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to God’s truth. Remember, He promises in Matthew 7:7, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:”.

Memory Verse: “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” – Matthew 7:8

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in God’s excellent Word!
What more can be said than to you God hath said,
To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?

“Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed,
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

(from “How Firm a Foundation” by K/John Rippon)

Scripture: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” – Matthew 16:26

Examination: In the beginning of this chapter, Jesus basically rebukes the religious leaders of Israel for their teachings and practices. Midway, Jesus asks who the disciples believe He really is. When Peter responds that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (v 16), the Lord affirms this. Finally, in the latter part of the chapter, Jesus speaks to His disciples about His suffering and death. When Peter protests, Jesus chastises him, then explains that the soul is more important than anything in the world including one’s life.

Application: I heard a very challenging message in church today by Missionary T.J. Bing. He and his wife, Hannah, plan to serve the Lord in Italy. This blog will be incorporating some very important concepts he shared in his message to the church today.

The value or worth of something is usually determined by what someone is willing to pay, exchange, or do for it. This is different for each individual. For example, if I were stranded on a desert island, I’d pay a lot for a boat to get me back home. But if someone lived in a place without a nearby lake or river, a boat would have little value to them.

From a spiritual perspective, we must ask ourselves, “How much is the human soul worth?” To God, our souls are incredibly valuable. So much so that He sacrificed Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, to give us the opportunity to spend eternity with Him in heaven instead of a Christless eternity in hell, which as sinners, we deserve. Even when we were His enemy, the value He placed upon our souls compelled Him to make a way for our sins to be forgiven, and that way was on the cross.

God knew that millions upon millions of people would never accept Christ as Saviour, and thus would choose hell over heaven, yet He died for all. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” No matter who we are; no matter where we live; no matter what religion we claim; no matter what language we speak… Jesus died for and offers a “whosoever” salvation to everyone. But it’s a personal salvation. No one can obtain salvation for you. No one can pray you into heaven; no one can ask God’s forgiveness for anyone’s sins but their own. Additionally, you can’t earn your salvation. Nothing you do, including attending church, getting baptized, tithing money, giving to the poor, etc., can merit heaven for you. There is nothing you can do to work your way into heaven because in God’s eyes, our works are just like filthy dirty rags. Isaiah 64:6 reminds us, “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.”

The bottom line is there is only one way to heaven, and that’s through Jesus Christ. He said, “…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”  (John 14:6). Truthfully, if there really was another way to get to heaven, it would have been pretty foolish of Jesus to choose to die a horrific tortuous death on the cross. But it wasn’t foolishness; it was divine love that nailed Jesus to the cross, and it’s this love that saves us from our sins and promises us eternal life in heaven.

So, what is it that is so important to you that it keeps you from Jesus. Career? Social media followers? Money in the bank? Embarrassment? Friends? Something else? Are any of those worth more than your soul? Are any of those worth spending eternity in hell?

Joshua made this statement when speaking to the nation of Israel after they had settled in the land God promised to them. “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)

This could easily be reworded to be more relevant for today: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the career ladder you seek to climb, or the followers you desire on social media, or the company you presently keep…”  Your soul’s place for all eternity is the most important thing to consider. If you choose Jesus, then you can say, like Joshua, “…but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Everyone will have eternal life, but as every realtor knows, the most important thing is location, location, location! It’s the same for eternity. The location for everyone is either heaven or hell. How important to you is your eternal home?

Choosing Jesus is really quite simple. Romans 10:13 states, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Your soul is worth everything to God, and He did everything He could to save it. How valuable is your soul and its eternal home to you?

Memory Verse: “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”  – Acts 16:31

I have decided to follow Jesus; I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus; no turning back; no turning back.

The cross before me, the world behind me;
The cross before me, the world behind me;
The cross before me, the world behind me; no turning back, no turning back.

(from “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” by Sadhu Sundar Singh/Simon Marak)

Scripture: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” – John 10:29

Examination: Jesus teaches that He is the “good Shepherd” and continues to define His relationship with His followers as one between a shepherd and the sheep. He goes on to explain that God protectively holds His “sheep” in His hand and no one can remove them from Him.

Application: When I was little, my dad would hold my hand whenever we were in a situation where I needed his protection. It could be crossing a street or walking around a busy department store. Nothing could pry my hand from his grasp, not even my own squirming would make him release me. I belonged to him, and he kept me safe from everything… even myself!

This is exactly how it is with God. Once we accept Jesus as our personal Saviour, God’s hand wraps around us, and we are forever safe in His care. It is impossible to lose the gift of salvation that His Son provided for us because God holds us tightly in His hand, and our position with Him is a done deal. Ephesians 2:8 states, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:”  I am so secure in the palm of God’s hand that even I cannot jump out of it!

The reality that God will never allow anything to sever our bond is such blessed assurance, as the old hymn states. Here are a few verses in the Bible that remind me of God’s faithfulness to our relationship.

• “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
• “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” – Joshua 1:9
• “I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” – Psalm 16:8
• “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:20

Regardless of whether I backslide, fail, or even intentionally choose a sinful way, God doesn’t allow me to fall from His hand. His grasp on me remains firm, and He gently speaks to my heart through His Word and Spirit, bringing me to repentance and restoration. It is good to be held in my Father’s hand forever!

Memory Verse: “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”  – 1 John 5:13

I feel the touch of hands so kind and tender. 
They're leading me in paths that I must trod.
I have no fear for Jesus walks beside me, 
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.

So let the storms rage high, the dark clouds rise,
They don't worry me; for I'm sheltered safe within the arms of God.
He walks with me, and naught of earth shall harm me,
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.

(from “Sheltered in the Arms of God” by Dottie Rambo)

Scripture: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18

Examination: Paul is explaining the need to be united as believers, not divided because of who preached the gospel to them. Instead, he instructed them to focus on Jesus. Additionally, he explains that the wisdom of man falls short even when compared to the “foolishness” of God.

Application: For decades, scientists believed that a bumblebee was not supposed to be able to fly. Its body was too big for its tiny wings to support, plus it flew at speeds too low for flight to be sustained. It was absurd to see this rotund little creature flitting from flower to flower. Eventually science discovered that the bumblebee doesn’t fly like a bird or a plane; its wings move in a figure-8 pattern instead of up and down, generating lift in each direction.

There are many occasions in the Bible where unexplainable and unbelievable things happen. To believe in these events would be absurd… if you didn’t have faith! Here are a few of those “absurd” occurrences in the Scriptures.

• The parting of the Red Sea
  • “And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.” – Exodus 14:22
• The floating ax head
  • “And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim.” – 2 Kings 6:6
• Calming a storm at sea
  • “And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” – Mark 4:39
• The Resurrection of Lazarus
  • “And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.” – John 11:44
• Peter walking on water
  • “And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.” – Matthew 14:27

This last example takes place during one of the disciples’ crossings of the Sea of Galilee. Seeing someone walking on the water toward them frightens them, after all, no one can walk on water! However, Jesus calls out and tells them that it is He and they need not fear (Matthew 14:27). Peter responds, “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” (v 28). Jesus then invites Peter to come out of the boat. Matthew 14:29 records the event. “And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.” As the impulsive disciple focuses on Jesus, he does the impossible! He walks on top of the water! Perhaps in a moment of realizing the impossibility of what is happening, Peter takes his eyes off Jesus and begins to sink into the sea! Matthew 14:31 describes what happens next. “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”.

Even though Jesus seemed to chastise Peter, His first action was to save the disciple from drowning. This is comforting to us today because we can know, without a doubt, that when our faith wavers… when we think it’s absurd that God would act in a certain way… Jesus will never allow us to drown in our disbelief. He will always reach out to us through His Word and Spirit to help restore us to Himself and renew our trust and faith in Him.

An absurd faith? To some, maybe, especially when one considers a verse like Romans 5:8. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” It does seem absurd that a holy God would suffer great agony and die on a rough rugged cross to save mankind from its own depravity and sin, but that is exactly what Jesus did. Time and time again, both in His Word and in my life, I am assured that there is truly no absurdity in placing my faith in a God who sacrificed Himself for me and loves me with an everlasting love!

Memory Verse:  “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.” – Proverbs 28:26

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.

On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand: all other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

His oath, his covenant, his blood, support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.

On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand: all other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

(from “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” by Edward Mote)

Scripture: “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.” – Daniel 3:17-18

Examination: Nebuchadnezzar has erected a massive monument to himself with the decree that all will worship him. Three young Hebrew men refuse to bow down, and the king threatens to throw them into a fiery furnace if they do not comply. Their response is that regardless of what the king does does to them, they will not bow down to him. They go on to say whether or not the Lord delivers them, they will continue to worship the true God.

Application: Unfortunately in life, bad things happen to good people. When circumstances are overwhelming, it is often difficult to hold on to one’s faith. However, it is vital to remember that in those hard times, the very thing that we should do is cling to our faith with all our might because God is the One who can do anything and everything.

When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were cast into the furnace, Nebuchadnezzar fully expected to witness the death of the three men. Instead, he was stunned when he looked into the furnace moments later. Daniel 3:25 records his outburst, “… Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.” This seemingly impossible situation was under God’s control the entire time. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego held on to their faith regardless of what the outcome could have been, and the Lord delivered them.

When King Darius sentenced Daniel to death, like Nebuchadnezzar, he was astonished to find the prophet alive and well the following day. Hoping that Daniel’s God had spared him, but fully expecting the prophet to have been torn apart by the lions, Darius called out to him the next day. Daniel 6:22 records Daniel’s response, “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.” Against all odds, Daniel survived without a scratch. His faith was rewarded by His God.

In the New Testament, we read of many occasions when God moved in miraculous ways to save His people… occasions where faith was deeply tested, and it seemed as though the outcomes were against all hope. God cares about each one of us and asks us to share with Him every concern we harbor in our hearts. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us of what to do, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

Whether it be terminal illness, death of a loved one, loss of finances, persecution for your beliefs, rejection from family or friends… regardless of the cross that you are called to bear, hold on to your faith. 1 Corinthians 16:13 states, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” God is faithful and will always be so. 1 Corinthians 1:9 proclaims, “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Unlike the myriad of circumstances in which we find ourselves, God remains our constant. He will hear us when we cry out to Him; He will always respond according to what is best for us and in perfect alignment to His will. He will never fail us, never abandon us, never ignore us. We must remember the truth of 2 Timothy 2:13, “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” Even when our faith wavers, God remains faithful… regardless.

Memory Verse: “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”– Psalm 34:1

As I look back on the road I've travelled,
 I see so many times He carried me through;
And if there's one thing that I've learned in my life,
My Redeemer is faithful and true.

My Redeemer is faithful and true. Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new. My Redeemer is faithful and true.

And in every situation He has proved His love to me;
When I lack the understanding, He gives more grace to me.

My Redeemer is faithful and true. Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new. My Redeemer is faithful and true.

(from “My Redeemer is Faithful and True” by Steven Curtis Chapman)

Scripture: “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” – James 2:17

Examination: James writes about the interconnection of faith with works. He declares that it is not the works that save, but rather the works come as a result of one’s life after salvation. It is a direct result of being saved and becoming a child of God.

Application: Believing in God is not enough to be classified as placing one’s faith in Him. The Bible tells us in James 2:19, “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” Satan believes in God, as do his evil angels, but there is no repentance or salvation for demonic beings.

Like anything else in life, having faith in someone or something involves active decision-making. Having faith in God means that a person couples their intellectual belief , the knowledge received from the Word of God, with purposeful action related to that belief.

Faith in Jesus involves the intellectual belief that He is the Son of God; He did die on the cross to pay for our sins, and He rose from the grave 3 days later. The purposeful action is repenting of your sins, asking Him for forgiveness, making Him your personal Lord and Saviour, and surrendering your will to His in every aspect of your life.

Once a person’s faith and trust is placed in Jesus, and His gift of salvation has been accepted, that faith is reflected in a new life lived according to the Scriptures. 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Being “new” in Christ means there is a life change. Titus 2:11-12 tells us, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”

Our faith in Christ should be manifest in what we say, what we do, how we interact with others, and how we give to God what He deserves from us. Faith in action is our testimony to a lost and dying world that Jesus is the One who makes the difference in our lives. Hebrews 13:21 tells us that faith in Christ will “make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Let your works shout to the world that you belong to Jesus and He belongs to you!

Memory Verse: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” – Colossians 3:23

My life, my love I give to Thee,
Thou Lamb of God who died for me;
O may I ever faithful be,
My Savior and my God!

I'll live for him who died for me,
How happy then my life shall be!
I'll live for him who died for me,
My Savior and my God!

(from “I’ll Live For Him” by R. E. Hudson)

Scripture: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1

Examination: This first chapter of the Bible describes the seven days of creation. God spoke and it was.

Application: The beginning of all things has been debated for centuries. Interesting to note that those who support the theory of evolution mock those who believe in  a divine Creator, and sadly, the opposite is often true as well. The claim of evolutionists is that believing in the biblical account of creation is based solely on faith, whereas evolution bases its validity on facts. The truth is that both paths of creation are based upon faith.

In order for something to be acceptable as fact, science states it must be able to be tested repeatedly for validation. Neither evolution nor biblical creation can meet that criterium, thus both must be viewed as faith-based theories.

The view of an evolutionist is that somewhere along the universal timeline, non-living matter became living matter albeit in its simplest form. One of the most accepted evolutionary origins of everything is the “big bang” theory. At the beginning of time, the universe was a very condensed ball of stuff that exploded to eventually form atoms. As eons of time passed, these atoms chose to “evolve” into some sort of microscopic living organisms, which became the onset of life. These tiny entities then randomly chose to become more complicated in form and evolved into higher functioning organisms. This pattern would continue over billions of years until we see the results of that process today in the form of humankind. Has this ever been proven? Can it be tested for validity? No. There were no eyewitnesses to the original event. It has never been replicated in a laboratory, Therefore, by definition, it can only be a scientific faith-based theory.

The view of the creationist is that there was a divine being who personally created everything. The first two chapters of the Bible explain that God spoke and within a six-day period, the universe was created, and everything in it came into existence. This theory also cannot be proven. No one was there to witness these events; therefore, it is a biblical faith-based theory.

Here are two questions that come to mind when comparing evolution with creation.

1. From where did it all begin?

• Evolution – According to NASA, when cosmic inflation stopped, the energy driving it transferred to matter and light – the big bang. One second after the big bang, the universe consisted of an extremely hot (18 billion degrees Fahrenheit or 10 billion degrees Celsius) primordial soup of light and particles.
  • Human reasoning asks, ‘Who was there to time this or take the temperature?’
  • Answer: No one
• Creation – God spoke the universe and all within it into existence.
  • “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” – Colossians 1:16
  • Human reasoning asks, ‘How did He do this?’
  • Answer: God is omnipotent. “And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” – Mark 10:27

2. How did random living matter become so organized and complex?

• Evolution – Simple organic (living matter) molecules are the building blocks of life and must have been involved in its origin. Science suggests that organic molecules could have been synthesized in the atmosphere of early Earth and rained down into the oceans. (University of Berkeley)
  • Human reasoning asks: ‘How can something be “involved” in its own origin?’
  • Answer: Unknown
• Creation – The action of an intelligent divine Creator, God, brought each unique lifeform into existence.
  • “Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.” – Nehemiah 9:6
  • Human reasoning asks, ‘Where did God come from?’
  • Answer: “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” – Psalm 90:2

There are many other questions that perpetuate the debate between the theories of evolution and creation. Clearly, none of these can be proven. This is where faith comes into play. Upon examination of the evidence that is available, the obvious question is “In what do you want to place your faith?”

Like Joshua, we all need to answer that question. “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (24:15).

As for me and my house, we choose to place our faith in the living God.

Memory Verse: “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” – 1 John 5:4

My faith has found a resting place, not in device nor creed.
I trust the ever-living One; His wounds for me shall plead.
I need no other argument, I need no other plea,
It is enough that Jesus died, and that he died for me.

Enough for me that Jesus saves, this ends my fear and doubt;
A sinful soul I come to Him, He’ll never cast me out.
I need no other argument, I need no other plea,
It is enough that Jesus died, and that he died for me.

My heart is leaning on the Word, the written Word of God,
Salvation by my Savior’s name, salvation thro' his blood.
I need no other argument, I need no other plea,
It is enough that Jesus died, and that he died for me.

(from “My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” by E. E. Hewitt )

Scripture: “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;”  – 2 Thessalonians 1:3

Examination: Paul is commending the church in Thessalonica for their faith. They have endured persecutions, but still held on to the gospel that had been shared with them. He tells them that their faith will be rewarded when Jesus returns.

Application: It’s so easy to have faith when things are going well, but when life throws a curve ball, it becomes much more difficult to trust the Lord for the outcome. Additionally, when God doesn’t answer our prayers within our expected timeline, faith sometimes wanes.

According to Hebrews 12:1, faith is “… the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” It requires trusting the Lord to answer our prayers the best way possible in the best time frame, believing that He is acting according to His perfect will for our lives. Not always easy to do!

Most likely, if someone were to conduct a survey of Christians asking them if they believed their salvation was true and that one day they would be with Jesus in heaven, the response would be an overwhelming, “Yes!” It seems so easy to trust that Jesus died, was buried, and rose from the dead to be the Saviour of the world with the ability to forgive every sin. The faith needed for salvation comes easy, while faith in God for meeting financial needs, healing sickness, restoring broken relationships, etc., is so hard to hold on to. So how do we cultivate more faith?

Romans 10:17 gives us the answer. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” By reading and studying the Bible, we learn how God has worked in the lives of others. Since the Bible records God as saying, “For I am the LORD, I change not…”, we can know that the God that worked in the lives of Ruth, Daniel, David, Paul, etc., is the same God that works in our lives today.

I’m Growing our faith requires choosing to trust God and what He says in His Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” It’s important to remember that God is under no obligation to explain His actions to us; He is the Creator; we are His creation. As a child trusts his or her parents without necessarily needing an explanation from them, we need to trust our heavenly Father also. Then, as we begin to experience His hand in our lives, our faith will grow more and more.

Memory Verse: “And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.” – Mark 11:22

I care not today what the morrow may bring,
If shadow or sunshine or rain,
The Lord I know ruleth o’er everything,
And all of my worry is vain.

Living by faith in Jesus above,
Trusting, confiding in His great love;
From all harm safe in His sheltering arm,
I’m living by faith and feel no alarm.

(from “Living By Faith” by James Wells)

Scripture: “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:” – 1 Peter 2:2

Examination: Peter compares our faith to a building in which Jesus is the foundational cornerstone, and we are the construction materials upon which the rest of the structure is built. He details the responsibilities that believers have as the “lively stones” that are to be laid upon the foundation of the Saviour.

Application: As with any structure, the base must be strong enough to support the rest of the construction materials. With Jesus as the cornerstone of our faith, the early church apostles and leaders become the first level of our spiritual edifice. Ephesians 2:20 states that those who place their faith in Christ “…are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”. We must be like the wise man who built his house upon the rock (Matthew 7:24).

In construction, cement, sand, rock, and water are combined to create the concrete needed for a strong building. If one ingredient is missing or tainted, the concrete is not as effective as a building material.  Likewise, “… as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5), we must be composed of the right materials without contamination or we risk the destruction of our “spiritual house”.

The purest material that provides all we need to grow in our faith, and build our house, is found in God’s divine manual, the Bible. Romans 10:17 states, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” To help us understand the Scriptures, God has given us faithful men to preach His Word and Sunday school teachers to help us learn the basics of the Bible. This is similar to superintendents or foremen who help the workers correctly interpret and follow the plans as they build.

The more we understand what God is telling us in His Word, the more we will be able to construct a strong spiritual house and “… walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;” (Colossians 1:10). Let us make time this year to build our own spiritual monument of our growing faith in the Lord Jesus Christ!

Memory Verse: “For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6

Jesus is the cornerstone came for sinners to atone
Though rejected by His own, He became the cornerstone
Jesus is the cornerstone

'Til the breaking of the dawn, 'til all footsteps cease to roam
Ever let this truth be known, Jesus is the cornerstone
Jesus is the cornerstone!

(from “Cornerstone” by Lari Goss)

Scripture: “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13

Examination: Paul describes the characteristics of a love that can only come from God. He is explaining that while there are various gifts that God gives to believers, the greatest gift we can have, and share, is His love in us.

Application: The 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians is often called “The Love Chapter” of the Bible. Many of its verses explain “charity” as a love that only can come from God. This is sometimes referred to as “agape” love, and means a sacrificial, selfless, divine love as seen in the Lord Jesus Christ. Here are the characteristics of the charity (love) of God.

• “Charity suffereth long…” (v4)
  • “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
• “… is kind…” (v4)
  • “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” – Jeremiah 31:3
• “Charity envieth not;” (v4)
  • “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” – Romans 8:32
• “Charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,” (v4)
  • “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” – Philippians 2:8
• “Doth not behave itself unseemly…” (v5)
  • “The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.” – Psalm 145:17
• “… seeketh not her own…” (v5)
  • “For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.” – Romans 15:3
• “… is not easily provoked…” (v5)
  • “The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.” – Psalm 145:8
• “… thinketh no evil;” (v5)
  • “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” – Jeremiah 29:11
• “Rejoiceth not in iniquity…” (v6)
  • “For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee.” – Psalm 5:4
• “…but rejoiceth in the truth;” (v6)
  • “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14:6
• “Beareth all things…” (v7)
  • “And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.” – Isaiah 46:4
• “…believeth all things…” (v7)
  • “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10
• “…hopeth all things…” (v7)
  • “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” – Romans 15:13
• “…endureth all things.” (v7)
  • “I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.” – Ecclesiastes 3:14
• “Charity never faileth…” (v8)
  • “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” – Luke1:37

Stop for just a moment and consider this. When God says He loves us with an everlasting love, this list is what it encompasses. This is the “agape” love that He has for you and for me.

Memory Verse: “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” – John 15:12

Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to him belong; they are weak, but he is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.

(from “Jesus Loves Me” by Anna Bartlett Warner)