God Wants You to Walk by Faith and Not by the Buzz Going on Around You

 

People have ardently sought after signs and wonders for generations. Every new “miracle worker” that comes on the scene has a buzz around them, especially in this technological age of social media and advanced technology. It is very easy nowadays to share information not only in the area you live in but in your country and with people all over the world, in other countries. Even language barriers can be bypassed by using translation services to communicate information in writing and by speech.

 

This is excellent from a communications standpoint and gives easy access to information. At the same time, it has created many distractions, as almost anyone can post on social media. The Bible encourages us to be steadfast and diligent in serving God. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV), "For we live by faith, not by sight." The apostle Paul reminds us as believers that our walk with God is to be based on our faith and not on what we see and hear around us. This means that we need to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance, even when people and circumstances around us may seem to be pointing us in a different direction. We need to trust Him even when our expectations and analysis of a situation tell us to do something or to take a decision that is contrary to what God has told us in His Word, the bible.

 

 

The Nature of Faith

 

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) states: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

 

Faith, according to the Bible, is the foundation upon which the Christian life is built. It is a firm trust in God's character, promises, and provision, even when circumstances seem bleak or uncertain. Rather than relying on tangible evidence or worldly assurances, faith rests in the certainty of God's faithfulness.

 

We can find numerous stories in the Bible that show when people followed what God told them to do even when it did not seem to make sense to them. A good example of this is Job. Job is one of the books of the Bible most often used to talk about suffering. Job was a man who was said to have lived without blame and was upright before God (Job 1:8). In his suffering his wife and others pressured him, however, Job did not turn away from serving God (Job 1:20-22, 2:9, 10. He persevered and the happy outcome of the restoration of what he had lost serves to encourage us and strengthen us to endure the trials we face in this life. If that is not a great testimony of faith in God and endurance, I don’t know what is.

 

There are also examples in the Bible of those who followed their inclinations and disregarded the guidance of God only to find themselves in trouble. In other words, they were outrightly disobedient to God. In the book of Jeremiah, the prophet gave the word of God to King Hezekiah. He did not willingly do so as they had thrown him into prison when he had delivered a message from God previously. The king secretly asked Jeremiah to tell him what the Lord had said and promised that he would not be killed. Jeremiah told Hezekiah that God said he should surrender to the princes of the king of Babylon, and he would live. Instead of doing so, Hezekiah went into battle with them with a disastrous end. His sons were killed, his people were taken into captivity, the city was destroyed, and his eyes were gouged out.

 

Our walk is not easy and trusting what God tells you to do is sometimes easier said than done. When you face dire circumstances, and the outcome of the situation is highly dependent on the choices you make, the pressure can be so great that you make the wrong choices. This is why it is important to use the Bible as a compass in times of uncertainty and trust God to guide you.  

 

 

Reports of Miracles, Signs, Wonders, and Prophecies are Plentiful

 

If we scan social media and news reports there is no shortage of stories and reports of strange happenings, signs, and wonders. Reports of people with extraordinary gifts doing extraordinary things. Prophecies, interpretation of signs, warnings, and predictions. There is no doubt that people have been healed and that God still communicates with people. However, some make false claims and take advantage of people who are desperate for a miracle in their lives. There are even people who have proclaimed themselves to be Jesus Christ. This plethora of claims certainly causes people to become skeptical. There are so many examples of people falsely claiming to have supernatural powers, claiming to be sent by God. Some of these people take advantage of others who are seeking a word from God. Some scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus to give them a sign. In Matthew 12:39 Jesus stated, “A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” Signs can be a distraction from genuine faith so we should not be too hung up on seeking them.

 

While the Bible is replete with miracles, they serve a purpose beyond mere spectacle. John 20:29 reminds us, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." Miracles in the Bible often confirmed the message of God's messengers, but they were never intended to replace faith.

 

Living by Faith, Not by Sight

 

The essence of faith is captured in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." This verse sets the foundation for a life led by trust in God's promises, rather than reliance on visible proof. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where faith, rather than sight, is the guiding principle for the faithful. Our life as Christians is a walk of faith and without faith, we will not be able to overcome the obstacles along the way and please God.

 

2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV): "For we live by faith, not by sight." The apostle Paul reminds believers that their walk with God is characterized by faith, not by what they can perceive with their physical senses. This shows us the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and guidance, even when circumstances may seem perplexing or contrary to our expectations. We are told in 1 Corinthians 10: 21, “Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.” We are also told in Proverbs 16: 25, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” We need to focus on what the word of God tells us and not allow ourselves to be consumed by sensational narratives about things that are happening.

 

 

Anticipating the Return of Christ

 

As for the return of Christ, Matthew 24:36 cautions, "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only." This verse teaches that speculation about the timing of Christ's return is futile. Instead, we are encouraged to live in readiness and obedience. We are to be vigilant and prepared for His coming, living each day in a manner that reflects our faith and devotion to Him.

 

In Matthew 24 of the Bible, Jesus warns us not to allow anyone to deceive us. He told us that many people will come in His name and say they are Christ and will deceive many people. In verses 11 and 24 He also warns of false Christs and false prophets that will come doing great signs and wonders. Christ instructed that if they tell us to go to the desert to find Him there, we should not go and if they tell us that he is in a secret chamber we should not believe it. We are sure that He will return, and He has told us about some events surrounding His return, but the specific date and time is not known to us.

 

 

Enduring Faith

 

James 1:12 (NIV): "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." That is the essence of the Christian encouragement of hope and the reward for accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and living a life that is pleasing to Him.  

 

During trials and challenges, we need to maintain our faith in Christ. James encourages perseverance under trial, highlighting the reward awaiting those who remain steadfast in their trust in God. This endurance is not fueled by the fleeting buzz of the world but grounded in the eternal promises of God.

 

 

Conclusion

 

In a world where the allure of signs and wonders often competes for our attention, the call to walk by faith remains resolute. God desires His people to trust in Him wholeheartedly, regardless of the circumstances or the clamor of the world. By anchoring our lives in faith, we find true security and fulfillment, knowing that God's promises are steadfast and sure. As we await the return of Christ, let us live each day with unwavering faith, trusting in the One who holds the future in His hands.

 

In conclusion, the Bible teaches that a life of faith is not dependent on the buzz and clamor for signs and wonders. If that is our main motivation, we may allow ourselves to be deceived. Instead, our faith and Christian inspiration is a quiet confidence in God's promises, a steadfastness in the face of uncertainty, and a hopeful watchfulness for Christ's return. By walking by faith, believers stand on the solid ground of God's word, which endures forever. God wants you to walk by faith.

Living in the Fullness of God's Promises

“Follow me as I follow Christ,” my brother the apostle Paul said. When I examine the life of the Apostle Paul it is a powerful testament to living in the fullness of God's promises. Is your personality like Paul’s? What type of personality are you? Paul was originally known as Saul. He was like most people today who do not believe that Jesus Christ is God, so he made it his mission to persecute all Christians to have them deny and reject their belief in Jesus. Christians all over Israel feared Paul and fled for their lives. Those whom he captured were cast into prison and some killed.

Paul's Strengths

Paul was a Benjamite, a Pharisee trained under the famous Gamaliel, was circumcised on the eighth day, and was a Roman citizen. He was an extremely zealous follower of Judaism (Php 3:5-6). Paul was a Hebrew of Hebrews. He was a highly educated student of the Scriptures and knew them well. He was a skillful writer, debater, and public speaker. Whole-hearted- Paul was an “all-or-nothing” kind of guy. He was never lukewarm. He either zealously persecuted Christianity or zealously proclaimed it. That zeal was a very good quality when he finally focused his energy on serving Christ.

Paul's Weaknesses

 

Paul sometimes struggled with pride and had a hot temper. He said that God put a thorn in his flesh to keep him humble (2 Co 12:7). The following examples demonstrate this point. On the second missionary journey, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them, but Paul disagreed because of a previous mistake that Mark had made. They eventually decided to split up with Barnabas and Mark traveling together and Paul was accompanied by Silas. Evidently, Barnabas was right because Mark went on to be a faithful missionary. Paul also grew angry with a servant girl who was a fortune teller and cast that spirit out of her, apparently in anger (Acts 16:18). He wouldn’t leave the prison in peace when he was wrongfully jailed with Silas, wanting an apology (Acts 16:37). He also was disrespectful to the high priest (Acts 23:3).

 

I believe that the Lord chose Paul to lead the process of bringing the gospel to the Gentiles because of his personality. This tells me that if we want to be successful at anything we must be driven, focused, and determined. Paul was a zealous persecutor of Christianity. He went from place to place, dragging believers from their homes to prison. He witnessed and supported Stephen’s stoning. Jesus miraculously intervened in his life to save him and transform him completely. Notice how quickly he got baptized and started proclaiming Jesus.

 

During this transformative experience, Saul's name was changed to Paul and he became one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church, spreading the gospel throughout the Mediterranean world despite facing numerous challenges and hardships. Through his life, we can glean important insights into how to live in the fullness of God's promises to us.

 

 

Encounter with Christ

 

Paul's encounter with Jesus was a pivotal moment in his life. It was a divine intervention that transformed him from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted follower of Christ. Similarly, living in the fullness of God's promises begins with a personal encounter with Jesus. This encounter changes our perspective, redirects our path, and empowers us to live according to God's will.

 

 

Faith in God's Promises

 

Throughout his ministry, Paul faced many challenges, including persecution, imprisonment, and shipwrecks. Yet, he remained steadfast in his faith, trusting in God's promises. He wrote in Philippians 4:19, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Paul's unwavering faith in God's promises enabled him to persevere through trials and continue his mission.

 

 

Surrender and Obedience

 

Paul's life was characterized by surrender and obedience to God's will. He often described himself as a "bondservant of Christ" (Romans 1:1), emphasizing his complete surrender to God. Living in the fullness of God's promises requires surrendering our will and desires to Him and obeying His commands. As we align our lives with God's will, we experience His blessings and the fulfillment of His promises.

 

 

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit

 

Paul's ministry was empowered by the Holy Spirit. He relied on the Spirit's guidance, wisdom, and strength to preach the gospel and establish churches. Likewise, to live in the fullness of God's promises, we need the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Spirit enables us to live victoriously, overcome challenges, and bear fruit for God's kingdom.

 

 

Perseverance in Trials

 

Paul's life was not without difficulties. He endured hardships, persecution, and suffering for the sake of the gospel. Yet, he persevered, knowing that God's promises were trustworthy and true. Living in the fullness of God's promises often requires perseverance through trials. As we trust in God's faithfulness and rely on His strength, we can persevere through challenges and continue to walk in His promises.

 

 

Focus on Eternal Perspective

 

Paul had a heavenly perspective, recognizing that his present sufferings were temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaited him. He wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Living in the fullness of God's promises requires focusing on eternal values and trusting in God's eternal plan for our lives.

 

The life of the Apostle Paul serves as a profound example of living in the fullness of God's promises. Through his encounter with Christ, unwavering faith, surrender and obedience, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, perseverance in trials, and focus on an eternal perspective, Paul demonstrated what it means to live a life fully committed to God and His promises.

 

Living in the fullness of God's promises for you is a profound and transformative experience that requires faith, obedience, and a deep relationship with God. God's promises are found throughout the Bible, offering guidance, assurance, and hope to those who believe. Here are some steps and principles to help you live in the fullness of God’s promises for your life:

 

We must know God’s promises by reading and studying the Bible. The Bible is God's word and contains numerous promises for His people. Spend time reading, studying, and meditating on the scriptures to understand what God has promised you. Then you should claim God’s promises, by identifying the promises in the Bible that apply to your situation or needs. Write them down, memorize them, and speak them over your life.

 

We should trust in God’s faithfulness by believing in God’s character. God is faithful, loving, and trustworthy. Trust in His character and believe that He will fulfill His promises in your life. Remember past testimonies by reflecting on the times when God has been faithful to His promises in your life or in the lives of others. Let these testimonies strengthen your faith.

 

Let us seek God’s will and direction by praying continually and developing a habit of praying and seeking God’s will for our lives. Ask Him to guide you, reveal His promises to you, and give you the wisdom to understand and apply them. We should listen to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide. Listen to His promptings, guidance, and direction as you seek to live in the fullness of God’s promises.

 

It is great when we obey God’s Word. Living in obedience is to experience the fullness of God’s promises, it is essential to live a life of obedience to God’s word. Align your actions, thoughts, and decisions with His will. As we walk by faith let us trust God even when circumstances seem challenging or when His promises seem delayed. Walk by faith, not by sight, believing that God is working behind the scenes for your good.

 

We should stay connected to the body of Christ by fellowshipping with believers. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage, support, and pray for you as you seek to live in the fullness of God’s promises. While receiving spiritual guidance. Let us seek guidance from spiritual leaders, mentors, or mature believers who can provide wisdom, counsel, and accountability in our journey.

 

Praising and Thanking God cultivates a heart of gratitude. Continually praise and thank God for His promises, faithfulness, and blessings in your life. We must declare His promises by saying them with faith and authority over our lives and circumstances.

 

Meanwhile, we must be patient and persevere. Let us wait on God’s timing.  God’s timing is perfect. Be patient and persevere in faith, trusting that He will fulfill His promises at the right time. As we endure trials and challenges. We understand that challenges and trials are part of the journey. Endure them with faith, knowing they are opportunities for growth, refinement, and a deeper reliance on God.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Living in the fullness of God's promises for you is a lifelong journey of faith, trust, obedience, and relationship with God. It requires a deep commitment to knowing, trusting, and obeying God’s word, as well as a willingness to seek His will, persevere through challenges, and cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise.

 

As you walk this journey, remember that God is faithful, and His promises are yes and amen in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:2), and allow His word and Spirit to guide, strengthen, and transform you into the person He has created you to be.

Overcoming Low Self-esteem Through Our Faith in Jesus Christ

Low self-esteem is a common problem that many people struggle with. It can affect our relationships, our work, our health, and our happiness. Low self-esteem can make us feel unworthy, insecure, and hopeless. But there is a way to overcome low self-esteem and find true confidence and joy in our lives. That way is through our faith in Jesus Christ. 

Jesus Christ loves us unconditionally and knows us personally. He knows our strengths and our weaknesses, our talents and our flaws, our hopes, and our fears. He knows everything about us and still loves us infinitely. He died for us on the cross to save us from our sins and to give us eternal life. He rose from the dead to show us His power and His glory. He is the Son of God, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords. He is our Savior, our Redeemer, and our Friend. 

When we believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we become His children. We are adopted into His family and inherit His blessings. We receive His grace and His mercy, His peace and His joy, His strength, and His wisdom. We are no longer defined by our past mistakes, our failures, or our shortcomings. We are defined by His love, His forgiveness, and His righteousness. We are precious, valuable, and beautiful in His eyes. 

The Bible tells us that God created us in His image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). He made us with a purpose and a plan for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). He gave us gifts and abilities to serve Him and others (1 Peter 4:10). He has a wonderful future for us that is full of hope and glory (Romans 8:18). He wants us to be happy and fulfilled in Him (Psalm 37:4). He wants us to grow in faith and maturity as His disciples (Ephesians 4:15). He wants us to shine as His lights in the world (Matthew 5:16). 

To overcome low self-esteem, we need to renew our minds with the truth of God's Word (Romans 12:2). We need to meditate on His promises and His character (Psalm 119:105). We need to pray to Him and listen to His voice (John 10:27). We need to worship Him and praise Him for who He is and what He has done for us (Psalm 150:6). We need to fellowship with other believers who can encourage us and support us (Hebrews 10:25). We need to serve others with love and humility as Jesus did (Mark 10:45).

 As we do these things, we will experience the transforming power of God's love in our lives. We will see ourselves as He sees us: as His beloved children who are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). We will feel His presence and His peace in our hearts (Philippians 4:7). We will overcome low self-esteem through our faith in Jesus Christ.