by Jerry Senn
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen ... And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (Heb 11:1, 6, NRSV).
It is always good to analyze and challenge our own personal faith!!!
Is it really real? Or, is it a state of mind, something accepted mentally as a traditional concept which we dare not openly deny? If so God denies this as genuine faith because it provides little impact on thinking or behavior. It can be described as “head in the sand” faith.
Is it really real? Or, is it anti-intellectual? Is it a warm feeling that requires you to “check your mind at the door.” Feeling and faith are not identical, but the two must be wisely and honestly balanced to make it real.
Is it really real? Or, is it a mental attitude of “having to believe a thing” rather than facing the painful challenges real faith requires? Evidence to produce genuine faith is right in front of us.
Let’s consider the list of Faith’s Hall of Fame in Hebrews 11:
“By faith Abraham … went out, not knowing where he was going” (v 8).
“By faith even Sarah … received the ability to conceive” (v 11).
“By faith Abraham, when tested, offered up Isaac” (v 17).
“By faith Jacob, … blessed each of the sons of Joseph” (v 21).
“By faith Moses … refused to be called the son of Pharoah’s daughter” (v 24).
“By faith the walls of Jericho fell” (v 30).
“By faith Rahab the harlot did not perish” (v 31).
In each case trusting God (real faith) required a challenge to be pursued in deep and meaningful submission to the will of God. Approaching God is serious business, but the reward is too wonderful to be expressed.
Is our faith really real?