Here’s a reminder of something you probably already know: Faith is very important.
The New Testament Epistle to the Hebrews, in Chapter 11, recounts the amazing things that have been done by faith. Noah built an ark that saved his family from drowning, Abraham left his home to find a new one far away, his wife Sarah bore a son when she was far past the child-bearing age, Moses led millions of his fellow citizens out of slavery, the walls of Jericho fell to the ground—these examples tell us what can be accomplished “by faith.” Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). With it we have everlasting life (John 3:16), we understand the mystery of creation (Hebrews 11:3) and we receive the blessings of peace and rest (Romans 5:1). Through faith we can move mountains! (Matthew 17:20)
How can you build a powerful faith, one that lasts?
1. Put God first in your life.
Jesus said the most important commandment of all is to love God with all your heart and soul and mind and strength (Mark 12:29-30).
2. Ask God to help you grow.
God tells us to “grow in grace” (2 Peter 3:18). The Apostle Paul commended the Christians at Corinth because they excelled in everything — including faith (2 Corinthians 8:7). Sometimes you may feel that your own faith is weak. During those times, acknowledge your weakness and cling to the love and power of God. Once Jesus was approached by a man whose son had a malady so severe that sometimes he fell down foaming at the mouth, unable to move, even if he fell into a fire. This father begged the Lord, “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” Jesus replied, “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Honoring the man’s honest confession, Jesus healed the boy (Mark 9:17-27). How that family’s faith must have grown after that!
3. Let God speak to you through his Word.
“Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). You cannot grow in faith if you do not make time to read and study the Bible. The Word of God is powerful and can change people’s lives. It can change yours!
