Meditation

Do you have any of these? I’m sure we all do, so what is faith? The NIV version of the Bible gives this in Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we cannot see.” We all hope for many things, but I suggest that the verse refers to things of which the Lord would approve. Thinking of these things, we must be certain of them, even when we can’t see them. How can we be certain of things we cannot see? That’s where faith comes in! By faith, we have it as a personal possession – especially if we have asked for something in the will of God. As far as He is concerned, we have it, because He loves to give to His believing children. God cannot, or will not, answer when there is no faith on our part upon which He can respond.

What about facts? “A fact is something that has actual existence or a piece of information presented as having objective reality.” It also could be something we have seen or heard. Facts are all around us, some true and some false or misleading. But facts must always be scrutinized for truth.

Feelings, what about them? Basically they are an emotional state or reaction. A feeling means a subjective response to a person, thing or situation. Most feelings are partly mental, partly physical and respond as pleasure, pain, attraction or revulsion and may be either positive or negative. We all know, from experience, that our feelings rise and fall, depending on what situations, people or circumstances we encounter. What about our feelings concerning our salvation? Right here is where many Christians fail because they don’t “feel” that they are saved. But we cannot base our salvation on our feelings, only on the word of God: “Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). God has given us feelings for our protection, teaching and restoration.

So, what do we do when we feel bad? Many things of which you are all familiar. It could be a temporary affliction allowed by God. Always remember Romans 8:28, which says, “All things work together for good for those who love God and are the called according to His purpose.”

– Gene Davidson,

Stanwood Free Methodist Church