The Path to Faith
Someone recently asked me how I came to believe.
Interesting question. In my case, like many people, I had what might be called an “inherited childhood faith,” but inherited faith is not sufficient for life. When, as a young adult, I had that crisis of faith that comes to most if not all of us, I considered the world religions and saw one difference in faith in Jesus – the historical evidence that he actually arose from the dead. His tomb was empty on that third day. Otherwise, his enemies would have paraded his decaying body publicly to prove that he was still dead.
And then there is this “evidence from within.” God promised that we would find Him if we seek Him with all our hearts. John talks about the true light that “true light to everyone” (John 1:9). Paul talks about the “faith God has distributed to each of you” (Romans 12:3). We need only to be genuine seekers of truth at all costs, and He will reveal Himself to our inner person.
But where do we go from there? If Jesus really is who He says He is, then He will have kept for us Scripture that is essential for following Him. I must, therefore, listen to those early disciples and to the prophets to whom Jesus Himself referred and allow His Spirit to enter me and change me, rather than allowing my desires to rule my life.
That’s where I found peace and an increase of faith.
“How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” Psalm 119:9
“I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.” Verse 10
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Verse 11
This is the only path to genuine heart-filled peace. Turn to Him with whatever faith is within you, however little. Choose to trust Him. Listen to Him speak both through the words of Scripture, and in that inner nudge within you. Joy and peace will continually grow within you.
Declare His Word over your spirit, emotions, and circumstances. Believe them, and let your faith in God arise, redeem and make you new.