FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 15:4: For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
The emphasis here is not that we see everything eye to eye, but rather that we regard one another with minds that are filled with and focused on the Lord as we “follow Jesus Christ.” The fact is, most of us are nitpickers by nature. I flush with embarrassment when I remember that as a teenager I actually would wait in line to “share” with a speaker what I thought he should have included in his message! Conversely, how I thank God that the first ten years of my ministry were spent serving under a man who was not a divisive nitpicker. He followed so close to Christ that he was able to endure my youthful faults with a Christlike spirit of unity. Such a mind, filled with and focused on Christ, is able to control its actions and even deny itself for the sake of the unity of the Body of Christ. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Read Psalm 119:130 – because “it was written for our learning.” How does God’s word bring light to your darkened circumstances, and understanding for your personal difficulties? Read Psalm 119:140 – can you say: I love God’s Word? Can you prove it?
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The greatest treasure is the treasury of His Word in your heart and mind.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Lord, help me to read and study and think about Your Word more and more each day.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
