Faith

Genesis 15:6; Galatians 3:6-9; Hebrews 11:6; 1 Peter 1:8-9

What comes to mind when you think of faith? Is it simply believing in something or someone? Is it more than that? When it comes to faith in God, Merriam-Webster defines it as belief and trust in and loyalty to God.¹ I'll have to admit, I was surprised to see that Webster included all three of these; belief, trust, and loyalty. Scripture clearly shows that faith goes beyond belief. In fact, James 2:19 says You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. (NASB) Obviously, just believing in God does not demonstrate faith.

I've never been a great fan of heights. I like to keep my feet on the ground as much as possible. I guess my dislike in that area has never been more tested than our family trips to Stone Mountain, Georgia. We have been several times and we will usually ride the Summit Skyride; the gondola that takes you to the top of the mountain. I'm always inspecting the cables, pulleys, bolts and such before entering (as if I would be able to discern any problems). It is difficult for me to trust a bunch of metal pieces assembled by humans to carry a massive cable car fully loaded with guests as it transports them more than 825 feet above ground to the top of Stone Mountain. I reluctantly ride anyway. And I must say, there's not a better view of the Confederate Memorial Carving. It is simply stunning.

It's one thing to say you believe the Summit Skyride carries all those folks safely up and down the mountain day after day, and another to climb aboard and take the ride for yourself. Again in chapter 2, James says that faith, if it has no works, is dead. (v. 17) He speaks of how Abraham was justified by works when he offered up Isaac his son on the altar, (v. 21) and how Rahab the harlot was justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way. (v. 25) Their works were done in obedience to God, showing much more than just believing, but climbing on board and trusting fully in Him.

I thank God that we are saved by His wonderful gift of grace. And as Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8, it is by His grace through faith; our belief, trust, and loyal actions revealing our full dependence on, and obedience to God. Do you have faith in Him?

Galatians 2:20 (NASB) I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.

Pastor Mike Deese


¹https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/faith