Faith

A few weeks ago I went out to dinner with some friends. Somehow the conversation turned to a discussion of the things we believe to be true and hold dear about our relationship with God. One side was of the idea that there are several aspects of Christianity that hold importance, such as when we worship. The other side is of the idea that outside of things that are very clear in the Bible, the rest is up to interpretation but holds little to no real impact on our salvation. I just listened, but it did cause me to think again about my heart.

In discussions like this, I am always reminded of 1 Corinthians 10:23 "Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive." In fact, the conversation started with talking about Christians who refrain from meat and other foods for religious reasons. Paul speaks about this very thing, although everyone in our group agreed that, while not necessary to save your soul, it is not detrimental, either.

Many years ago, I had another conversation with a group of friends, during which one came to an understanding of what having a relationship with Christ meant for the first time, and the rest of us grew deeper in our faith by discussing it. It was at that time I came to a realization that has always stuck with me, and returned to mind last Monday. I believe that the true testament of faith comes only when you're willing to accept you may be wrong, but choose to believe it anyway.

It's easy to believe when you are confident something is true. But what about the times when your idea of truth is questioned? For many, it just takes the smallest amount of doubt to cause them to lose faith all together. Initial faith is easy. It's continual faith that challenges us and can either turn into our glory or our downfall. Jesus didn't put a blindfold on His disciples when He asked them to follow Him. Those who were with Him saw what He was about, both good and bad. Some chose to stick it out and some chose to leave. But they all made their decisions based on their experience as well as their faith. In fact, it was their experience that allowed their faith to be strengthened. And so it should be for us.

I believe, not because a nice lady told me to or because of a song I used to sing or a billboard I passed that told me I was going to hell if I didn't. I believe because God has proven Himself time and time again that He is faithful, so I too shall be faithful. Logic and science will try to convince me there's another explanation for the things I claim to be the faithfulness of God. And maybe they're right. I'm fully acceptable of the fact they may be right. So why do I continue to believe? Because, in believing, in resting my hope on a God who loves me, I am lacking in nothing. The Bible says His grace is sufficient and I believe that to be true. And if we get to the end and find out there really is nothing else, or we all get to go to heaven, or some other thing I thought to be true really was not, I will have no regrets. Because it's not about rules and laws and the after life. It's about living life now, and living life to the fullest. And I am fullest when I am basking in the love of God.