{"id":3163,"date":"2021-08-12T19:30:56","date_gmt":"2021-08-13T00:30:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/heavens-beauty.info\/wp-hb\/?page_id=3163"},"modified":"2021-08-12T19:30:56","modified_gmt":"2021-08-13T00:30:56","slug":"how-can-we-know-our-faith-is-ineffective","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/heavens-beauty.info\/wp-hb\/?page_id=3163","title":{"rendered":"How Can We know Our Faith is Ineffective"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"HowHow Can We know Our Faith is Ineffective?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Really, this may be a good question for many people. You can say you have faith all day long, but do you?<\/span><\/p>\n

Faith, is more than just saying ” Oh, I have faith for this, I have faith, for that but deep down… you are doubting all the way down to your toes….”<\/span> Faith is More than just words, it’s more than doing something on your own because you do not have the patience to wait, many people in this world, are guilty of this, I used to be bad about it, because I had not yet learned what it was.<\/span><\/p>\n

BIBLE READING<\/span>:<\/span> Genesis 16:1-16<\/b><\/span>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span><\/b> Sarai, Abram\u2019s wife, took Hagar the Egyptian servant and gave her to Abram as a wife. (This happened ten years after Abram first arrived in the land of Canaan.) (Genesis 16:3<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

INEFFECTIVE FAITH ATTEMPTS TO ANTICIPATE GOD\u2019S PLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Sarai took matters into her own hands by giving Hagar to Abram. Like Abram she had trouble believing God\u2019s promise that was apparently directed specifically toward Abram and Sarai. Out of this lack of faith came a series of problems. This invariably happens when we take over for God, trying to make his promise come true through efforts that are not in line with his specific directions.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this case, time was the greatest test of Abram and Sarai\u2019s willingness to let God work in their lives. Sometimes we too must simply wait. When we ask God for something and have to wait, it is a temptation to take matters into our own hands and interfere with God\u2019s plans.<\/span>
\n\u00a0<\/span>
\nBIBLE READING<\/span>:<\/span> Exodus 14:1-31<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span><\/b> As Pharaoh and his army approached, the people of Israel could see them in the distance, marching toward them. The people began to panic, and they cried out to the LORD for help. Then they turned against Moses and complained,<\/span> \u201cWhy did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren\u2019t there enough graves for us in Egypt? Why did you make us leave?\u201d<\/span><\/span> (Exodus 14:10-11<\/b>)<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

INEFFECTIVE FAITH IS MARKED BY A LACK OF TRUST IN GOD<\/span><\/p>\n

Trapped against the sea, the Israelites faced the Egyptian army sweeping in for the kill. The Israelites thought they were doomed. After watching God\u2019s powerful hand deliver them from Egypt, their only response was fear, whining, and despair. Where was their trust in God? Israel had to learn from repeated experience that God was able to provide for them. God has preserved these examples in the Bible so that we can learn to trust him the first time. By focusing on God\u2019s faithfulness in the past we can face crises with confidence rather than with fear and complaining.<\/span>
\n\u00a0<\/span>
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> Matthew 3:1-17<\/b><\/span>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> Prove by the way you live that you have really turned from your sins and turned to God. (Matthew 3:8<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

INEFFECTIVE FAITH IS MARKED BY AN UNCHANGED LIFE<\/span><\/p>\n

God\u2019s message hasn\u2019t changed since the Old Testament-people will be judged for their unproductive lives. God calls us to be active in our obedience. John compared people who claim they believe in God but don\u2019t live for him to unproductive trees that will be cut down. Just as a fruit tree is expected to bear fruit, God\u2019s people should produce a crop of good deeds.<\/span><\/p>\n

God has no use for people who call themselves Christians but do nothing about it. Like many people in John\u2019s day who were God\u2019s people in name only, we are of no value if we are Christians in name only. If others can\u2019t see our faith in the way we treat them, we may not be God\u2019s people at all. To be productive for God, we must obey his teachings, resist temptation, actively serve and help others, and share our faith. How productive are you for God?
\n\u00a0
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> 1 Corinthians 4:1-21<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> I will come-and soon-if the Lord will let me, and then I\u2019ll find out whether these arrogant people are just big talkers or whether they really have God\u2019s power. (1 Corinthians 4:19<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

James 2: 14<\/b>\u00a0Dear brothers and sisters, what\u2019s the use of saying you have faith if you don\u2019t prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can\u2019t save anyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

15<\/b> Suppose you see a brother or sister who needs food or clothing,<\/span><\/p>\n

16<\/b>\u00a0and you say, \u201cWell, good-bye and God bless you; stay warm and eat well\u201d<\/span>\u2014but then you don\u2019t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?<\/span><\/p>\n

17<\/b>\u00a0So you see, it isn\u2019t enough just to have faith. Faith that doesn\u2019t show itself by good deeds is no faith at all\u2014it is dead and useless.<\/span><\/p>\n

18<\/b>\u00a0Now someone may argue, \u201cSome people have faith; others have good deeds.\u201d<\/span> I say, \u201cI can\u2019t see your faith if you don\u2019t have good deeds, but I will show you my faith through my good deeds.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

INEFFECTIVE FAITH SELDOM GOES BEYOND WORDS<\/span><\/p>\n

Some people talk a lot about faith, but that\u2019s all it is-talk. They may know all the right words to say, but their lives don\u2019t reflect God\u2019s power. Paul says that the kingdom of God is to be lived, not just discussed. There is a big difference between knowing the right words and living them out. Don\u2019t be content to have the right answers about Christ. Let your life show that God\u2019s power is really working in you.<\/span><\/p>\n

WEAK FAITH HOW CAN WE KNOW OUR FAITH IS WEAK?<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

BIBLE READING:<\/span><\/b> Matthew 14:22-33<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> Then Peter called to him, \u201cLord, if it\u2019s really you, tell me to come to you by walking on water.\u201d<\/span> (Matthew 14:28<\/b>)<\/p>\n

1 Timothy 2:15<\/b>\u00a0But women will be saved through childbearing and by continuing to live in faith, love, holiness, and modesty.<\/span><\/p>\n

WEAK FAITH TENDS TO LACK ENDURANCE<\/span><\/p>\n

Peter was not putting Jesus to the test, something we are told not to do (Matthew 4:7<\/b>).<\/span><\/p>\n

Instead he was the only one in the boat to react in faith. His impulsive request led him to experience a rather unusual demonstration of God\u2019s power. Peter started to sink because he took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the high waves around him. His faith wavered when he realized what he was doing. We may not walk on water, but we do walk through tough situations. If we focus on the waves of difficult circumstances around us without looking to Jesus for help, we too may despair and sink. To maintain your faith when situations are difficult, keep your eyes on Jesus\u2019 power rather than on your inadequacies.<\/span><\/p>\n

Romans 14:1<\/b>\u00a0Accept Christians who are weak in faith, and don\u2019t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

2<\/b>\u00a0For instance, one person believes it is all right to eat anything. But another believer who has a sensitive conscience will eat only vegetables.<\/span><\/p>\n

3<\/b>\u00a0Those who think it is all right to eat anything must not look down on those who won\u2019t. And those who won\u2019t eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them.<\/span><\/p>\n

4<\/b>\u00a0Who are you to condemn God\u2019s servants? They are responsible to the Lord, so let him tell them whether they are right or wrong. The Lord\u2019s power will help them do as they should.<\/span><\/p>\n

WEAK FAITH OFTEN FALTERS<\/span><\/h3>\n

Although we start out with good intentions, sometimes our faith falters. This doesn\u2019t necessarily mean we have failed. When Peter\u2019s faith faltered, he reached out to Christ, the only one who could help. He was afraid, but he still looked to Christ.<\/span><\/p>\n

When you are apprehensive about the troubles around you and doubt Christ\u2019s presence or ability to help, you must remember that he is the only one who can really help.
\n\u00a0
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span><\/span> Luke 24:1-12<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> Peter ran to the tomb to look. Stooping, he peered in and saw the empty linen wrappings; then he went home again, wondering what had happened. (Luke 24:12<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Matthew 17:19<\/b>\u00a0Afterward the disciples asked Jesus privately, \u201cWhy couldn\u2019t we cast out that demon?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

20<\/b>\u00a0\u201cYou didn\u2019t have enough faith,\u201d<\/span> Jesus told them. \u201cI assure you, even if you had faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, \u2018Move from here to there,\u2019 and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

1 Corinthians 13:2<\/b>\u00a0If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn\u2019t love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody.<\/p>\n

1 Corinthians 16:13<\/b>\u00a0Be on guard. Stand true to what you believe. Be courageous. Be strong.<\/span><\/p>\n

14<\/b>\u00a0And everything you do must be done with love.<\/span><\/p>\n

EVEN WEAK FAITH IS A PART OF THE PROCESS OF BELIEF<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

People who hear about the Resurrection for the first time may need time before they can comprehend this amazing story. Like the disciples, they may pass through four stages of belief.<\/span><\/p>\n

At first, they may think it is a fairy tale, impossible to believe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Like Peter, they may check out the facts but still be puzzled about what happened.<\/span>
\nOnly when they encounter Jesus personally will they be able to accept the fact of the Resurrection.<\/span><\/p>\n

Then, as they commit themselves to Jesus and devote their lives to serving him, will they begin fully to understand the reality of his presence with them.
\n\u00a0
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> Mark 9:14-29,32<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> The father instantly replied, \u201cI do believe, but help me not to doubt!\u201d<\/span><\/span> (Mark 9:24<\/b>)
\n<\/span>
\nRomans 14:22<\/b>\u00a0You may have the faith to believe that there is nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who do not condemn themselves by doing something they know is all right.<\/p>\n

23<\/b>\u00a0But if people have doubts about whether they should eat something, they shouldn\u2019t eat it. They would be condemned for not acting in faith before God. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.<\/p>\n

1 Timothy 3:9<\/b>\u00a0They must be committed to the revealed truths of the Christian faith and must live with a clear conscience.<\/p>\n

12<\/b>\u00a0A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well.<\/p>\n

13<\/b>\u00a0Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.<\/span><\/p>\n

WEAK FAITH CAN BECOME STRONG FAITH WITH GOD\u2019S HELP<\/span><\/p>\n

The attitude of trust and confidence that the Bible calls belief or faith (Hebrews 11:1, 6<\/b>) is not something we can obtain without help. Faith is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9<\/b>). No matter how much faith we have, we never reach the point of being self-sufficient. Faith is not stored away like money in the bank. Growing in faith is a constant process of daily renewing our trust in Jesus.<\/span>
\n\u00a0<\/span>
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> Romans 14:1-23<\/b><\/span>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span><\/span> Accept Christians who are weak in faith, and don\u2019t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. (Romans 14:1<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Titus 1: 1<\/b>\u00a0This letter is from Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I have been sent to bring faith to those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

2<\/b>\u00a0This truth gives them the confidence of eternal life, which God promised them before the world began\u2014and he cannot lie.<\/span><\/p>\n

13<\/b>\u00a0This is true. So rebuke them as sternly as necessary to make them strong in the faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

14<\/b>\u00a0They must stop listening to Jewish myths and the commands of people who have turned their backs on the truth.<\/span><\/p>\n

1 Peter 5:9<\/b>\u00a0Take a firm stand against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.<\/span><\/p>\n

THOSE WITH WEAK FAITH NEED TO RECOGNIZE THEIR LIMITATIONS<\/span><\/p>\n

Who is weak in faith and who is strong? We are all weak in some areas and strong in others. Our faith is strong if we can survive contact with sinners without falling into their patterns. It is weak if we must avoid certain activities, people, or places in order to protect our spiritual life. It is important to take a self-inventory in order to find out our strengths and weaknesses.<\/span><\/p>\n

In areas of strength, we should not fear being defiled by the world; rather we should go and serve God. In areas of weakness, we need to be cautious. If we have a strong faith but shelter it, we are not doing Christ\u2019s work in the world. If we have a weak faith but expose it, we are being extremely foolish. Whenever in doubt, we should ask, Can I do that without sinning? Can I influence others for good, rather than being influenced by them?<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH HOW CAN WE KNOW OUR FAITH IS EFFECTIVE?<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

BIBLE READING:<\/span> Luke 17:1-10<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> One day the apostles said to the Lord, \u201cWe need more faith; tell us how to get it.\u201d<\/span><\/span> (Luke 17:5<\/b>)<\/p>\n

Matthew 21:20<\/b>\u00a0The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, \u201cHow did the fig tree wither so quickly?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

21<\/b>\u00a0Then Jesus told them, \u201cI assure you, if you have faith and don\u2019t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, \u2018May God lift you up and throw you into the sea,\u2019 and it will happen.<\/span><\/p>\n

22<\/b>\u00a0If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

James 5:15<\/b>\u00a0And their prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make them well. And anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH DEPENDS ON GOD<\/span><\/h3>\n

The disciples\u2019 request was genuine; they wanted the faith necessary for radical forgiveness. But Jesus didn\u2019t directly answer their question because the amount of faith is not as important as its genuineness.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is faith?<\/span><\/p>\n

It is total dependence on God and a willingness to do his will. Faith is not something we use to put on a show for others. It is complete and humble obedience to God\u2019s will, readiness to do whatever he calls us to do. The amount of faith isn\u2019t as important as the right kind of faith-faith in our all-powerful God.<\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 4:16<\/b>\u00a0So that\u2019s why faith is the key! God\u2019s promise is given to us as a free gift. And we are certain to receive it, whether or not we follow Jewish customs, if we have faith like Abraham\u2019s. For Abraham is the father of all who believe.<\/span><\/p>\n

17<\/b>\u00a0That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, \u201cI have made you the father of many nations.\u201d<\/span> This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who brings into existence what didn\u2019t exist before.<\/span><\/p>\n

18<\/b>\u00a0When God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham believed him. God had also said, \u201cYour descendants will be as numerous as the stars,\u201d<\/span> even though such a promise seemed utterly impossible!<\/span><\/p>\n

19<\/b>\u00a0And Abraham\u2019s faith did not weaken, even though he knew that he was too old to be a father at the age of one hundred and that Sarah, his wife, had never been able to have children.<\/span><\/p>\n

20<\/b>\u00a0Abraham never wavered in believing God\u2019s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God.<\/span><\/p>\n

21<\/b>\u00a0He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised.<\/span><\/p>\n

22<\/b>\u00a0And because of Abraham\u2019s faith, God declared him to be righteous.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH IS MORE CONCERNED WITH ITS LIFE THAN ITS SIZE<\/span><\/p>\n

A mustard seed is small, but it is alive and growing. Like a tiny seed, a small amount of genuine faith in God will take root and grow. Almost invisible at first, it will begin to spread, first under the ground and then visibly. Although each change will be gradual and imperceptible, soon this faith will have produced major results that will uproot and destroy competing loyalties. We don\u2019t need more faith; a tiny seed of faith is enough, if it is alive and growing.<\/span>
\n\u00a0<\/span>
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> Romans 5:1-11<\/b><\/span>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> Since we have been made right in God\u2019s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. (Romans 5:1<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Romans 5:2<\/b>\u00a0Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God\u2019s glory.<\/span><\/p>\n

Matthew 8:10<\/b>\u00a0When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to the crowd, he said, \u201cI tell you the truth, I haven\u2019t seen faith like this in all the land of Israel!”<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 20:21<\/b>\u00a0I have had one message for Jews and Gentiles alike\u2014the necessity of turning from sin and turning to God, and of faith in our Lord Jesus.<\/span><\/p>\n

Romans 4:4<\/b>\u00a0When people work, their wages are not a gift. Workers earn what they receive.<\/span><\/p>\n

5<\/b>\u00a0But people are declared righteous because of their faith, not because of their work.<\/span><\/p>\n

1 Peter 1:7<\/b>\u00a0These trials are only to test your faith, to show that it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold\u2014and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold. So if your faith remains strong after being tried by fiery trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH RESTS ON WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE<\/span><\/h3>\n

As Paul states clearly in 1 Corinthians 13:13<\/b>, faith, hope, and love are at the heart of the Christian life. Our relationship with God begins with faith, which helps us realize that we are delivered from our past by Christ\u2019s death. Hope grows as we learn all that God has in mind for us; it gives us the promise of the future. And God\u2019s love fills our life and gives us the ability to reach out to others.
\n\u00a0
\nBIBLE READING:<\/span> Hebrews 10:19-39<\/b>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> A righteous person will live by faith. But I will have no pleasure in anyone who turns away. (Hebrews 10:38<\/b>)<\/p>\n

Luke 7:50<\/b>\u00a0And Jesus said to the woman, \u201cYour faith has saved you; go in peace.<\/span><\/p>\n

Luke 22: 32<\/b>\u00a0But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen and build up your brothers.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 3:16<\/b>\u00a0The name of Jesus has healed this man\u2014and you know how lame he was before. Faith in Jesus\u2019 name has caused this healing before your very eyes.<\/p>\n

Acts 11:24<\/b>\u00a0Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith. And large numbers of people were brought to the Lord.<\/p>\n

Acts 24:24<\/b>\u00a0A few days later Felix came with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus.<\/p>\n

Romans 1: 5<\/b>\u00a0Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name.<\/p>\n

Eph 4:5<\/b>\u00a0There is only one Lord, one faith, one baptism,<\/p>\n

6<\/b>\u00a0and there is only one God and Father, who is over us all and in us all and living through us all.<\/p>\n

7<\/b>\u00a0However, he has given each one of us a special gift according to the generosity of Christ.<\/p>\n

13<\/b>\u00a0until we come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God\u2019s Son that we will be mature and full grown in the Lord, measuring up to the full stature of Christ.<\/p>\n

Eph 6:13<\/b>\u00a0Use every piece of God\u2019s armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm.<\/p>\n

14<\/b>\u00a0Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God\u2019s righteousness.<\/p>\n

15<\/b>\u00a0For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared.<\/p>\n

16<\/b>\u00a0In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan.<\/p>\n

17<\/b>\u00a0Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.<\/p>\n

18<\/b>\u00a0Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.<\/p>\n

23<\/b>\u00a0May God give you peace, dear brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n

Philippians 1:25<\/b>\u00a0I am convinced of this, so I will continue with you so that you will grow and experience the joy of your faith.<\/p>\n

26<\/b>\u00a0Then when I return to you, you will have even more reason to boast about what Christ Jesus has done for me.<\/p>\n

27<\/b>\u00a0But whatever happens to me, you must live in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ, as citizens of heaven. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing side by side, fighting together for the Good News.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH GROWS UNDER PRESSURE<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Hebrews encourages believers to persevere in their Christian faith and conduct when facing persecution and pressure. We don\u2019t usually think of suffering as good for us, but it can build our character and our patience. During times of great stress, we may feel God\u2019s presence more clearly and find help from Christians we never thought would care. Knowing that Jesus is with us in our suffering and that he will return one day to put an end to all pain helps us grow in our faith and our relationship with him (see Romans 5:3-5<\/b>).<\/span><\/p>\n

James 2:1<\/b>\u00a0My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim that you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people more than others?<\/span><\/p>\n

2<\/b>\u00a0For instance, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in shabby clothes.<\/span>
\n3<\/b>\u00a0If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, \u201cYou can stand over there, or else sit on the floor\u201d<\/span>\u2014well,<\/span><\/p>\n

4<\/b>\u00a0doesn\u2019t this discrimination show that you are guided by wrong motives?<\/span><\/p>\n

5<\/b>\u00a0Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn\u2019t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren\u2019t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?<\/span><\/p>\n

6<\/b>\u00a0And yet, you insult the poor man! Isn\u2019t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?<\/span><\/p>\n

7<\/b>\u00a0Aren\u2019t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?<\/span><\/p>\n

8<\/b>\u00a0Yes indeed, it is good when you truly obey our Lord\u2019s royal command found in the Scriptures: \u201cLove your neighbor as yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

9<\/b>\u00a0But if you pay special attention to the rich, you are committing a sin, for you are guilty of breaking that law.<\/span><\/p>\n

Revelation 13:10<\/b>\u00a0The people who are destined for prison will be arrested and taken away. Those who are destined for death will be killed. But do not be dismayed, for here is your opportunity to have endurance and faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH BECOMES STRONGER THROUGH ENDURANCE<\/span><\/p>\n

The writer encourages his readers not to abandon their faith in times of persecution, but to show by their endurance that their faith is real. Faith means resting in what Christ has done for us in the past, but it also means hoping for what he will do for us in the future (see Romans 8:12-25<\/b>; Galatians 3:10-13<\/b>).<\/span><\/p>\n

BIBLE READING:<\/span> Hebrews 11:1-40<\/b><\/span>
\nKEY BIBLE VERSE:<\/span> What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. (Hebrews 11:1<\/b>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Matthew 9:22<\/b>\u00a0Jesus turned around and said to her, \u201cDaughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.\u201d<\/span> And the woman was healed at that moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Romans 5:3<\/b>\u00a0We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us\u2014they help us learn to endure.<\/span><\/p>\n

4<\/b>\u00a0And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation.<\/span><\/p>\n

5<\/b>\u00a0And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.<\/span><\/p>\n

Galatians 2:20<\/b>\u00a0I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me. So I live my life in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.<\/span><\/p>\n

21<\/b>\u00a0I am not one of those who treats the grace of God as meaningless. For if we could be saved by keeping the law, then there was no need for Christ to die.<\/span><\/p>\n

2 Thessalonians 1:3<\/b>\u00a0Dear brothers and sisters, we always thank God for you, as is right, for we are thankful that your faith is flourishing and you are all growing in love for each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

4<\/b>\u00a0We proudly tell God\u2019s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering.<\/p>\n

Hebrew 6:12<\/b>\u00a0Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God\u2019s promises because of their faith and patience.<\/p>\n

Hebrews 13:5<\/b>\u00a0Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, \u201cI will never fail you. I will never forsake you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

6<\/b>\u00a0That is why we can say with confidence, \u201cThe Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

James 1:3<\/b>\u00a0For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.<\/p>\n

4<\/b>\u00a0So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.<\/p>\n

5<\/b>\u00a0If you need wisdom\u2014if you want to know what God wants you to do\u2014ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking.<\/p>\n

6<\/b>\u00a0But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.<\/span><\/p>\n

7<\/b>\u00a0People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.<\/p>\n

8<\/b>\u00a0They can\u2019t make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.<\/p>\n

Revelation 14:12\u00a0<\/b>Let this encourage God\u2019s holy people to endure persecution patiently and remain firm to the end, obeying his commands and trusting in Jesus.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH IS HOPEFUL ANTICIPATION<\/span><\/h3>\n

Do you remember how you felt when you were very young and your birthday approached? You were excited and anxious. You knew you would certainly receive gifts and other special treats. But some things would be a surprise. Birthdays combine assurance and anticipation, and so does faith! Faith is the conviction based on past experience that God\u2019s new and fresh surprises will surely be ours.<\/span><\/p>\n

Matthew 9:28<\/b>\u00a0They went right into the house where he was staying, and Jesus asked them, \u201cDo you believe I can make you see?\u201d \u201cYes, Lord,\u201d they told him, \u201cwe do.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

29<\/b>\u00a0Then he touched their eyes and said, \u201cBecause of your faith, it will happen.\u201d<\/span><\/span>
\n 30<\/span>\u00a0And suddenly they could see! Jesus sternly warned them, \u201cDon\u2019t tell anyone about this.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 14:9<\/b>\u00a0He was listening as Paul preached, and Paul noticed him and realized he had faith to be healed.<\/span><\/p>\n

10<\/b>\u00a0So Paul called to him in a loud voice, \u201cStand up!\u201d<\/span> And the man jumped to his feet and started walking.<\/span><\/p>\n

22<\/b>\u00a0where they strengthened the believers. They encouraged them to continue in the faith, reminding them that they must enter into the Kingdom of God through many tribulations.<\/span><\/p>\n

27<\/b>\u00a0Upon arriving in Antioch, they called the church together and reported about their trip, telling all that God had done and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

2 Corinthians 4:13<\/b>\u00a0But we continue to preach because we have the same kind of faith the psalmist had when he said, \u201cI believed in God, and so I speak.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

14<\/b>\u00a0We know that the same God who raised our Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and present us to himself along with you.<\/span><\/p>\n

15<\/b>\u00a0All of these things are for your benefit. And as God\u2019s grace brings more and more people to Christ, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory.<\/span><\/p>\n

16<\/b>\u00a0That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are* being renewed every day.<\/span><\/p>\n

17<\/b>\u00a0For our present troubles are quite small and won\u2019t last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!<\/span><\/p>\n

18<\/b>\u00a0So we don\u2019t look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.<\/span><\/p>\n

1 Thessalonians 1:3<\/b>\u00a0As we talk to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and your continual anticipation of the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jude 1:20<\/b>\u00a0But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on the foundation of your holy faith. And continue to pray as you are directed by the Holy Spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n

21<\/b>\u00a0Live in such a way that God\u2019s love can bless you as you wait for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going to give you.<\/span><\/p>\n

22<\/b>\u00a0Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.<\/span><\/p>\n

EFFECTIVE FAITH IS QUIET CERTAINTY<\/span><\/p>\n

Two words describe faith: sure and certain. These two qualities need a secure beginning and ending point. The beginning point of faith is believing in God\u2019s character-he is who he says. The end point is believing in God\u2019s promises-he will do what he says. When we believe that God will fulfill his promises even though we don\u2019t see those promises materializing yet, we demonstrate true faith (see John 20:24-31<\/b>).<\/span><\/p>\n

Mark 11:22<\/b>\u00a0Then Jesus said to the disciples, \u201cHave faith in God.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

23<\/b>\u00a0I assure you that you can say to this mountain, \u2018May God lift you up and throw you into the sea,\u2019 and your command will be obeyed. All that\u2019s required is that you really believe and do not doubt in your heart.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

24<\/b>\u00a0Listen to me! You can pray for anything, and if you believe, you will have it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

25<\/b>\u00a0But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 6:5\u00a0<\/b>This idea pleased the whole group, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (a Gentile convert to the Jewish faith, who had now become a Christian).<\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 15:9<\/b>\u00a0He made no distinction between us and them, for he also cleansed their hearts through faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

Acts 16: 5<\/b>\u00a0So the churches were strengthened in their faith and grew daily in numbers.<\/span><\/p>\n

2 Corinthians 1:24<\/b>\u00a0But that does not mean we want to tell you exactly how to put your faith into practice. We want to work together with you so you will be full of joy as you stand firm in your faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

2 Corinthians 5:7<\/b>\u00a0That is why we live by believing and not by seeing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Galatians 3: 2<\/b>\u00a0Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by keeping the law? Of course not, for the Holy Spirit came upon you only after you believed the message you heard about Christ.<\/span><\/p>\n

9<\/b>\u00a0And so it is: All who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

11<\/b>\u00a0Consequently, it is clear that no one can ever be right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, \u201cIt is through faith that a righteous person has life.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

12<\/b>\u00a0How different from this way of faith is the way of law, which says, \u201cIf you wish to find life by obeying the law, you must obey all of its commands.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

14<\/b>\u00a0Through the work of Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, and we Christians receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

18<\/b>\u00a0For if the inheritance could be received only by keeping the law, then it would not be the result of accepting God\u2019s promise. But God gave it to Abraham as a promise.<\/span><\/p>\n

22<\/b> But the Scriptures have declared that we are all prisoners of sin, so the only way to receive God\u2019s promise is to believe in Jesus Christ.<\/span><\/p>\n

23<\/b>\u00a0Until faith in Christ was shown to us as the way of becoming right with God, we were guarded by the law. We were kept in protective custody, so to speak, until we could put our faith in the coming Savior.<\/span><\/p>\n

Colossians 1:23<\/b>\u00a0But you must continue to believe this truth and stand in it firmly. Don\u2019t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed by God to proclaim it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Colossians 2:5<\/b>\u00a0For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I am very happy because you are living as you should and because of your strong faith in Christ.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How Can We know Our Faith is Ineffective? Really, this may be a good question for many people. You can say you have faith all day long, but do you? Faith, is more than just saying ” Oh, I have faith for this, I have faith, for that but deep down… you are doubting all […]<\/p>\n

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