March 19, 2011

Opening Hymns:
Great is Thy Faithfulness B/B 73
Let the River Flow B/B 143

Scripture Reading:
Romans 4:13-17

Message: Define Faith
What does it mean to have faith? What does it mean to be faithful? While the words are simple enough at times it can be difficult to find and grasp their meaning. There are many different definitions of faith, and just as many different interpretations of what it means for us to live faithfully. At dictionary.com faith is defined as “confidence or trust in a person or thing” and “belief that is not based on proof.” However, scripture goes beyond the trust definition. In the scriptures we learn how important it is to have faith, and actions with it.

James 2:19-24 states: “19 You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder. 20 But do you want to know, vain man, that faith apart from works is dead? 21 Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works, in that he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? 22 You see that faith worked with his works, and by works faith was perfected; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness;” and he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that by works, a man is justified, and not only by faith.”

While at a first glance it may seem as though the scripture lesson for today and the last posting contradict this scripture, I see them as complementing one another. Works alone cannot earn us salvation. However, “Faith apart from works is dead” (James 2:20). Faith is alive when we act on it. When we not only trust and believe God, but also follow Him and His path set before us. When we reach out a hand to those in need; when we pray and actively talk to God, and when we give up our own desires for God’s plan and others… that is when faith is alive. If I was to define faith I would say it is “Confidently believing, trusting, and acting on that belief/trust.” Let us go out on this day with complete faith in God… Fully believing and actively following God’s call.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You when You lead us. Let us not only believe in You, but also act on that belief with our words, actions, thoughts, and deeds. Guide us on this day that we may never forget You, and Your active faith and care for us. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
Go, My Children, with My Blessing B/B 72

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God