Living Faith

Faith is a marvelous thing. It can change darkness into light and sorrow into joy in an instant. By faith we can draw near to God and be blessed.

In 2 Corinthians 13:5 we read an exhortation to examine ourselves whether we are in the faith. In Hebrews 10:38 we read that to draw back is the opposite of faith. “Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.” Faith produces works and an active, positive participation in everything that is good. Without faith, one is inactive, inclined to withdraw, and not inclined to do anything worthwhile.

When we examine our faith to see if it is living, it is not sufficient to search our own heart, for it can deceive us. We must do as it says, and prove whether or not Christ dwells in us. Then it becomes a question of our works and how they measure up. A living faith will fill our days with prayer and the word of God, and our body will be presented as a sacrifice. We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. We find and do these works by faith.

The Corinthians were begotten by faith into Christ, but they were babes; they did not stand the test. 1 Corinthians 3:1. We must examine ourselves whether or not we stand the test—whether we are babes or of full age—so we are not tossed about by the storms that come from the powers of darkness. Hebrews 5:12-14; Ephesians 4:13. It must be our goal to stand the test, fully aware of our position of faith before God. 2 Timothy 2:15. John was given a reed like a measuring rod to measure those who worshiped in the temple. Revelation 11:1. Those who overcame received a name and a seal on their foreheads. Revelation 3:12 and 9:4.

Do we stand the test if we meet up with sorrow, and can we give thanks without a hint of reproach? A godfearing woman sat by her dead child, refusing to be comforted, until she was liberated by these words: “Remember that God never makes a mistake.” A faith that is living has rest in everything that comes its way, knowing that it is for the best. Romans 8:28. It sees and knows the embrace of the “everlasting arms.” Deuteronomy 33:27.

In a living faith we can give account whenever we are required to do so and enter boldly into death. Then we do not stop at the elemen­tary principles of Christ (Hebrews 6:1), but are diligent to array our­selves in fine linen, clean and bright. Revelation 19:8. Let us examine ourselves to see whether we have partaken of this blessed faith.