Last week, we embarked on a journey to explore the profound concept of faith as a means of pleasing God. We delved into Hebrews 11:6, a verse highlighting the undeniable connection between faith and God’s pleasure in observing our response to Him and His word.
“But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.”
Hebrews 11:6 AMP
In this week’s continuation, we’re about to continue to unravel the composition of faith, a powerful blend of belief and action that propels us closer to God’s heart and rewards. Like water’s composition is H2O, faith’s composition is an intricate blend of believing God exists, understanding Him as a rewarder for those who diligently seek Him.
Faith’s Composition
#1 Believing in the Existence of God
Last week, we explored the foundational aspect of faith: believing in the existence of God.
This belief recognises God as the Creator, the source of all life and the universe. It’s also rooted in trusting His faithfulness and acknowledging His provision of redemption through Jesus Christ. Our faith rests on the understanding that God is not just a distant deity but a loving Father who seeks a personal relationship with us now in this life.
#2 Understanding God as a Rewarder
Faith’s composition also includes understanding God’s role. This isn’t a transactional approach but rather a reflection of God’s character and the spiritual law of sowing and reaping. Just as we invest in various aspects of our lives—marriage, business, skills—there are returns, rewards for our efforts. In the spiritual realm, diligently seeking God brings forth rewards and breakthroughs in our lives. The Bible presents God as one who delivers, compensates, restores, and blesses those who earnestly pursue Him.
#3 Diligently Seeking God
Diligently seeking God is an active component of faith’s composition. This pursuit involves a wholehearted commitment, a deep longing to know Him intimately, and a desire to align with His will. Jeremiah 29:13 captures this essence—searching for God with all our hearts, involving desperation and spiritual warfare. It’s a call to follow after, worship, and engage in close pursuit. This diligent seeking is not a mere ritual; it’s a passionate journey towards a more profound connection with the Divine.
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV
Reaping the Rewards
Jesus’ interaction with the rich young ruler in Luke 18:28-30 illustrates the principle of receiving rewards for our devotion. The promise of receiving “many times more in this world” highlights that our rewards aren’t confined to heaven alone. Just as earthly investments yield returns, so does our investment in seeking God wholeheartedly.
“And Peter said, See, we have left our own [things–home, family, and business] and have followed You.
And He said to them, I say to you truly, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers
or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God Who will not receive in return many times more in this world and, in the coming age, eternal life.”
Luke 18:28-30 AMP
Benefits of Seeking God
Psalm 103 enumerates the benefits of diligently serving God. These include forgiveness of sins, healing, redemption from destruction, compassion, satisfaction, and renewal. Seeking God’s presence yields tangible benefits that impact our lives meaningfully. It’s more than just a spiritual exercise; it’s a transformational journey.
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,And forget none of His benefits;”
Psalm 103:1-2
In conclusion, Faith’s composition isn’t a philosophical concept; it’s a blend of belief, action, and reward undergirded by a spiritual law of sowing and reaping. Believing in God’s existence and character, understanding His role as a rewarder, and diligently seeking Him constitute the essence of faith. This faith not only pleases God but also transforms us and our circumstances. Just as a painter frames a canvas, faith enables us to craft our world in alignment with God’s perspective. It positions our Choas to be transformed into order and fruitfulness.
May we embrace Faith’s composition wholeheartedly as we continue this faith journey? Let us seek after God with the intensity of a desperate pursuit, knowing that our efforts will be met with rewards that transcend our earthly expectations.
In the intricate blend of faith, we find the power to change our lives and the world around us. Remember, faith is the key that unlocks the promises of God, paving the way for His grace to manifest in our lives.