Mike Criswell
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, FAITH, meekness, temperance: against such, there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23)
Faith! Now, that’s an interesting concept in today’s culture. Actually, you don’t hear much about faith anymore outside of a church setting. Today, “religion” seems to be a taboo subject for many in the open marketplace.
Without getting too technical or theological, the word “faith” (Greek: pistis) is fascinating and also often misunderstood. In the Bible, the word “faith” can have two basic meanings. First, it can refer to a system of beliefs. For example, Jude 3 tells Christians to stand up for “the faith” once for all delivered to the saints. Here, “faith” refers to the doctrines that make up Christianity. Second, “faith” can refer to the “subjective” faith that an individual has in his or her heart. For example, James declares that one must have an active “faith” to be saved (James 2:24).
When we’re talking about the “spiritual fruit of faith,” we’re referring to one’s inner faith. In other words, the personal fidelity, conviction, and trust one has in God and His plan.
The writer to the Hebrews says that without “faith” it is impossible to please God! (Hebrews 11:6). He further reveals that diligence is required. It is interesting to note that all of these spiritual fruits are the product of diligence, training, and development. God certainly wants us to do our part.
When we talk about “faith” (personal faith) we probably ought to substitute the word “faithfulness” in its place. God wants “faithfulness from His children.” So, what's the point? Well, “faithfulness” is not necessarily the same as “perfection.” Many Christians get the two confused, which leads to all kinds of false perfectionistic theology. Sometimes, it even results in people trusting their own “perfection” for salvation. That won’t work! In our walk with God, we sometimes stumble. That is what “walking with God” is all about.
Look at how many times Abraham (the father of faith) failed miserably. But he got up and continued to follow God. Take heart! Jesus knows your frailties. He understands. He became one of us and died on the cross. He loves you that much. I firmly believe that while man emphasizes self-righteous “perfection,” God emphasizes lifelong “direction.” It’s direction, not perfection that God looks for!
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