3 Tips To Build a Faith That Lasts!
Ever watched a house being built? I have. The end result is beautiful if the finishing is right but it isn't the wallpaper or the granite worktops that necessarily make a good house. You can have designer furniture and the latest gadgets but it can all be destroyed if the foundation isn't right. Our faith is the same.
Doing the fundamentals or basics well is of utmost importance. A great set of great reminders came my way a few weeks ago and here is my take on the building materials of a strong "house" of faith:
1. Jesus is the cornerstone and foundation. A Christian models their life after the life of Jesus Christ. Jesus is our common identity and should be our first identity. Like John 1:12 & 13, those who have accepted Him [Jesus], he has given the right to become children of God. Jesus shows and is the way to live, Jesus is the truth and knows the truth about all things and Jesus is the life and gives life.
2. Memorize Gods word. It'll come in handy...all the time. I think it's very easy to forget the most basic things when you are familiar with them. If you have been a Christian for a while you may need a simple reminder to commit Gods word to memory. Why? Because it helps you internalize what God says about various aspects of our faith, because it helps us to be encouraged, because it helps us remember how God expects us to live and most importantly, scripture tells us who God is. Several times it is written "I have hidden your words in my heart"... like in Psalms 119:9-11 and Joshua 1:8 encourages us to meditate on Gods Word day and night. Jesus, our numero uno, did this and used memorized scripture to resist temptation. We should too.
Do I have to state that you have to read the Bible? Well, it's implied in tip 2 but I emphasize, you have to read the bible! That's how you then get to memorize scripture and to be honest, it is a constant reminder and reference for all things Christianity.
3. Put your faith into action. How? Intentionally pray according to Gods Word (His word will not return to Him void but accomplish what He sent it out to do - Isaiah 55:10-11), listen to things and people who build your faith and of course, don't give up church as some are still in the habit of doing (Hebrews 10:25). Simple enough? Well, thankfully technology can be used to help with this too. Podcasts are available of sermons, talks, debates, you can download a bible app to help with devotion, there's Christian music to steam and download, all things which can consolidate your faith. Go to church but not just on a Sunday. Get involved in other activities and talk to other believers. Ask questions. research scripture. Invest in growing your faith. It's one of the few things that should last. In this life and the next.
Remember Jesus said:
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock."
Matthew 7:24-25