Faith

This Thing Called Faith

by Dr. William James Carter, The 1st
01/05/20
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     We now live in a society wherein every one of every creed is declaring they have faith. The problem is that it becomes increasingly difficult to determine wherein the faith of these lies. Some seem to have faith in their jobs. Others have faith in their own abilities while even more have faith in false gods. The idea of faith seems to have ends only in the minds of those declaring they have faith.

     Scripture is not so vague when it comes to faith. Jesus is found admonishing Peter in Mark 11:22 with the simple words, “Have faith in God.” This faith that Jesus spoke of was not a mere know that God is able to perform as He said. It is the confidence that God will do just what He says. Having faith in God is have so much trust in God that there is no consideration of Him going against His Word. The idea of God not performing what was said does not come to mind. Having faith in God is know that there is no way that God’s Word will return void. God said it. End of discussion.

     Hebrews 10:38 declares, “Now the just shall live by faith.” This text appears to make a division in different people. It specifies the “just” are the ones to live by faith. This brings about the question as to who the just are. Now, the just are those who are righteous. It is those who are in right standing with God. The just are those who seek to please God with their lives. This means that those that love and honor God with their lives are required to have a lifestyle of faith.

     The idea of a required lifestyle is noted with the word “shall.” This word “shall” seems to mandate that those who are upright and living a life pleasing to God have a duty to live by faith. It is not optional. There is no suggestion. This thing called faith is not a choice of apathy. Rather, this thing called faith is an absolute must and required of those that are just. It is not apathetic; it is active. Therefore, the mandate for the just to have lifestyles of faith is not shown to be hidden in a closet. It is one that is presented in day-to-day activities.

     James 2:17 expounds on the activity of faith. The text reads, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” This means that confidence in God requires action on the part of the just. One cannot have faith and do nothing to show that faith. Faith requires action. This thing called faith means that one acts on God’s Word. If there is no action the matter of faith becomes questionable. Therefore, the just are not merely encouraged, the just are mandated to get up and show some signs of faith. Holding God respectfully to His Word is active faith. This thing called faith is mandated for the just and the just must walk in faith.