Back to Basics: Rediscovering the Unchanging Truths of Our Faith

 

Our lives are filled with so many things to get done. The ceaseless demands of work, taking care of our children and family, and just making life work. It seems as if we are on an endless treadmill. Life seems to be changing so fast. Everyone seems to be taken over by social media and technology. It has become very fast-paced and many of us feel like we are being swept away by this tide.  Our attention is fragmented, our time stretched thin, and our souls left longing for something more substantial. Sometimes things become so confusing and are so forcefully thrust upon us that we just want a break. How do we recharge our batteries and learn to find peace in the chaos? The truth is we need to return to the basics of our faith, to rediscover the unchanging foundation upon which we stand. In an era marked by rapid change and shifting ideologies, returning to the basics of our Christian faith is more vital than ever.

Jesus made a statement in Matthew 11:28-30 “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” I have found that when I am stressed, and I refocus on Christ my mood gradually begins to change. Jesus is calling you, Jesus Is calling me, and Jesus is calling us to rest, both physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The key to this rest is to be yoked with Christ and learn of Him. A Yoke is a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to the plow or cart that they are to pull. Farmers used to yoke two cows together to pull the plow to prepare the field for planting or yoke two horses together to pull their carts or carriages. When Christ and we are tied together and we are learning about Him and patterning our lives after His, then we begin to find rest for our souls. As the song says “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face and the things of Earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.”

 

 

The Unchangeable Truth of Jesus Christ

 

Imagine yourself sitting down gazing at the vastness of the sea or looking out at the horizon while enjoying the cool breeze and the warm hues of the setting sun. As you close your eyes it is as though you can see the figure of Jesus stretching out His hands to you and saying, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork” (Psalm 19:1 KJV). In this breathtaking panorama, there is an unmistakable sense of tranquility and peace. It's Jesus Christ - the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). If this scene unfolded before you at this very moment, would your heart swell with joy or quiver with fear? In a world where change is the only constant, Jesus remains an unchanging truth - a steadfast anchor for our souls amidst life's turbulent seas, especially for those who have embraced Him as their Lord and Savior.

The Call to Return to the Basics

 

In the hustle and bustle of our lives, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters in life, which is relationships. Relationship with ourselves, with God, with our kids, with our husbands or wives, with our siblings, with our friends, and with our neighbors. To develop this relationship requires love and this love can only be received by being yoked together and learning about Christ so that we are transformed into His image and Likeness. However, many of us are swept up in the fast-paced "rat race," consumed by seemingly endless tasks that leave our hearts feeling cold and our spirits weary. We're bombarded by a constant stream of headlines and viral stories vying for our attention, often blurring the lines between right and wrong. In a world where conflicting voices clamor for dominance, it is time now to stop, yes just stop, and begin to refocus on the source of our lives. Let us begin again to refocus on Jesus. Refocusing on Jesus can stir up a whirlwind of emotions, from sadness to anger to excitement.

 

In all this chaos, there is a quiet yet persistent call - a call to strip away the noise and return to the basics of our faith. It's a call to rediscover the beauty and simplicity of a life centered on God's truth. For us as Christians, these basics are the foundational practices that nurture our spiritual growth and deepen our connection with God.

 

 

Essential Practices for Spiritual Growth

 

Six essential practices form the foundation upon which our spiritual lives are built, as we seek to grow daily in the knowledge of God and in understanding His word.

 

Reading the Bible Daily: Make it a habit to immerse yourself in the Scriptures every day. Let each page be a source of life and truth, breathing fresh insight into your soul. The Bible isn't just a collection of ancient texts - it's alive with the voice of God, illuminating our path and shaping our understanding (Psalm 119:105). It is our measuring stick when we are in doubt. It addresses a wide range of issues and can guide every area of our lives.  Despite the voices that seek to distort its message, there will always be a faithful few who hold fast to the truth. In recent years, there's been a surge of theories and interpretations about the Bible, ranging from UFOs and aliens to fantastical creatures being equated with angels or Jesus. With countless videos and articles claiming authority on these matters, it's essential to approach these interpretations with discernment.

 

Daily Devotion and Prayer: As you take a moment to bow your head in prayer, let the worries of the world slip away as you connect with your Heavenly Father. Prayer isn't just a routine—it's a vital lifeline, a direct line of communication with the One who holds the universe in His hands (Matthew 6:6). The beauty of prayer is that you can do it anytime, anywhere. In a quiet moment, you can silently lift your heart to God, knowing that His Spirit is within you, listening to your every thought. And if you find it challenging to pray alone, don't hesitate to seek out a prayer partner to join you, whether in person or through other means like a phone call or video chat.

 

Engaging in Bible Study:  Study the bible with fellow believers whether in large or small groups. Bible study is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a journey - a journey of discovery and transformation as we go deeper into the riches of God's Word (2 Timothy 2:15). Many online resources can assist you as you engage in bible study. You just need to be discerning and make sure that the teaching lines up with what the Bible says. Studying by yourself is also important as you read and meditate upon the scriptures. You may find scriptures that you didn’t know existed or that explain things in a way that you never understood before. It may be the same verse or passage, but your understanding opens to a different perspective.

 

Worshiping with Other Believers: It is wonderful to stand in a congregation with other believers, voices raised in praise and adoration. Corporate worship is not simply a Sunday or Saturday morning ritual; it is a sacred encounter - a moment of communion with the One who is worthy of all honor and glory (Matthew 18:20).

 

Applying God's Word: Practice walking in the truths of Scripture in your everyday life, each step a testament to the transforming power of God's Word. Obedience is not simply a duty; it is a privilege - a tangible expression of our love and devotion to the One who first loved us (James 1:22). You may not always get things right and you will make mistakes but if you continue to seek God’s help and guidance you will grow stronger in your faith.

 

Sharing the Gospel: Stepping out in faith, and boldly proclaiming the Good News to a world in desperate need of hope is something that all Christians are asked to do. This can be done in many ways. Not everyone will be speaking to or teaching in large groups. You can share with your friends and relatives or even strangers, one-on-one, as the opportunities arise. You can evangelize without speaking a word. Evangelism is not simply a task; it is a calling - a divine commission to be ambassadors of reconciliation, shining the light of Christ into the darkest corners of humanity (Matthew 28:19).

 

 

Overcoming Distractions and False Teachings

 

As you walk the path of faith, you'll face hurdles and setbacks - distractions that tempt you off course and false teachings that aim to deceive you. There might even be individuals who challenge your commitment to serving God. Whenever this happens, please continue to press forward in Christ. Remember that your connection with God is deeply personal. The more you talk to Him in prayer and delve into His Word, the deeper your understanding of and closeness to Him will grow. The better equipped you will be to resist the devil and he will have no choice but to flee from you as the word of God tells us.

 

This will allow us to know when He is speaking to us and when the voice, we are hearing is that of someone else. As stated in John 10:4-5, “When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.  But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Also, John 10:27–28, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: [28] And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”

 

 

Persevering on the Journey

 

The call to return to the basics of our faith is not simply a suggestion. It is a call to embrace the journey of discipleship with renewed vigor and passion. As you do so, may you be filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and majesty of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ - the same yesterday, today, and forever. May you be refreshed and encouraged, growing in grace day by day.

 

Let us cast aside the distractions that compete for our attention and fix our eyes firmly on the Author and Perfecter of our faith. Let’s immerse ourselves in the timeless truths of Scripture and allow them to shape and mold us into the image of Christ. As Hebrews 12:1 says, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”  Let us journey together, as we strive to live our lives in ways that are pleasing and honoring to the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.

For in Him, we find our true identities and our purposes. In Him, we find the strength and courage to face whatever lies ahead. Let us press on, dear friends, with hearts open and ready, knowing that He who has called us is faithful, and He will surely bring to completion the good work that He has begun in us (Philippians 1:6)

Overcoming Fear Through Prayer and Faith: A Journey to Inner Peace

Fear strikes terror in the hearts of many. The fear of being broke, homeless, or dying. Fear of sickness or divorce and many other reasons can cause us to quiver and become frightened and so petrified that we are unable to act. Fear is a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of rejection, and so on. Whether the threat is real or imagined, the feeling or condition of being afraid exists. The uncertainties, insecurities, and uncontrollable aspects of life can grip our hearts, paralyze our actions, and hinder personal growth.

 What is Fear?

Fear is a universal human reaction that we experience at different points in our lives. It is a natural emotion that can be helpful when it alerts us to potential dangers or motivates us to act. However, fear can also be harmful when it becomes excessive, irrational, or paralyzing. Fear can prevent us from living fully and joyfully, and from fulfilling our God-given purpose.

 

The Bible consistently tells us not to fear or be afraid, but that seems impossible for us to do because fear is a natural emotion. Fear, I believe, is a God-given mechanism that helps us face and overcome difficult situations.  Once you are in a dangerous situation your awareness is triggered. The amygdala, a small organ in the center of your brain, becomes active and it signals your nervous system to initiate the fear response in your body. Stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, are released, leading to an increase in your blood pressure and heart rate. This is known as the fight-or-flight response.

 

Curiously, individuals who revel in experiences like bungee jumping, riding roller coasters, visiting haunted houses, or watching horror movies, find pleasure in these moments of fear. The enjoyment extends beyond the conclusion of the activity due to the excitation transfer process. Even after the scary experience concludes, the body and brain remain aroused. In these situations, the brain produces increased levels of dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure. Fear can be good or bad, it depends on how we react to fear and how we manage the situations which trigger it. 

  

How Does the Lord Jesus Teach Us to Handle Fear

The popular acronym FEAR is for - False Evidence Appearing Real. When a situation arises that triggers the fear reaction, we often anticipate the worst, and we become afraid of the consequences that may result. 

 

Jesus teaches us to fear Him only. This typically means to have reverential awe, respect, and acknowledgment of God's power, holiness, and authority. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This kind of fear is seen as a positive and constructive attitude that leads to wisdom and a right relationship with God. In essence, the fear of the Lord in a positive sense, is not about being terrified of punishment but about acknowledging God's greatness and living in a way that aligns with His will. It's a recognition of His sovereignty and an understanding of our dependence on Him for guidance and wisdom. So, while the terminology may seem contradictory at first glance, it reflects different aspects of the relationship between humans and the Divine.

 

The essence of the bible is about relationships - the relationship between God and man and between man and man. In Matt 22: 36 – 40 a Pharisee asked Jesus, “Master, which is the great commandment in the law?  Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

 

When you and I love the Lord intensely, we recognize that He is our Father, that He is a good Father, and that every good father takes care of his children. Fathers prepare their children to be successful in life so that when they become adults, they can take care of themselves and be good citizens. Similarly, the Lord Jesus Christ is preparing us to rule and reign with Him and He wants us to grow to be like Him. When we study the life of Jesus, we recognize that regardless of the situation that He was in, He had no fear. In the storm when His disciples were going crazy with fear, He told them to be calm and fear not. He wants us to develop this quality.

 

Developing an anxiety-free mind is a process of growth over time. We should learn to fix our thoughts on Jesus and the promises that He has made towards us while learning to Trust Him. This helps us to alleviate fear and anxiety. In Philippians, chapter 4, the Bible instructs believers not to be anxious about anything, but to bring their requests before God through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7). Instead of dwelling on fear, focus on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8-9).

 

Many times, I get fearful especially when something goes wrong, and I am afraid of the consequences. This causes me not to be able to sleep, and sometimes my heart begins to beat very fast. What I usually do when I find myself in these situations, is to recite bible verses that speak to my fear of the situation. This begins to calm me. Next, I read some bible verses, and then pray. I pray according to the word of God and His promises and after a while, I find that my mindset begins to change. Gradually, I begin to focus on how to overcome the challenge.

 

To overcome fear, we have to identify and acknowledge the source. Understanding the source of fear can help us to address it more effectively. We can practice deep breathing to calm the body's physiological responses. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or progressive muscle relaxation, can also be helpful.

 

We then need to challenge and reframe negative thoughts that are contributing to our fear. We can replace irrational fears with more realistic and positive perspectives by focusing on what Jesus says, not on our situation. When we gradually expose ourselves to the source of our fear in such a controlled manner, this can help to desensitize the response to the fear over time.

 

We need to seek support by talking to friends, family, or a mental health professional about our fears. Sharing your feelings can provide support and bring different perspectives. We develop coping strategies such as problem-solving, seeking social support, or engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. We should keep informed by seeking knowledge about the fear-inducing situation. This can empower us and reduce uncertainty.

 

If fear becomes overwhelming or significantly impacts your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and support. Remember, managing fear is a gradual process, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you in managing and overcoming your fears. Do not allow fear to have dominion over you and to become a stronghold in your life.

 Fear is overcome by faith in God and His Word. Trust that He is sovereign over all things and has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). Meditate on Scripture that reminds you of His promises and faithfulness. We should practice living a life of integrity by being honest, trustworthy, and faithful in all that we do. When we walk according to God’s principles, we can trust Him to guide us through difficult situations. As you take your fears before the Lord, name the things that you are scared of, whether it’s disease, loss, economic challenges, or political turmoil, and ask God to transform your fears into His peace (Philippians 4:6-7).

Remember that true peace comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, bear in mind that fear can keep you safe in certain circumstances. The fear of being killed by a car helps us to be more careful on the road. The fear of being robbed causes us to be more conscious of our surroundings, and to make wise decisions on how we store and protect our belongings.

 

Faith is the cornerstone of our spiritual beliefs. It is an unwavering trust and belief in the Lord Jesus’ plan for us. Cultivating faith involves surrendering to the notion that there is a purpose beyond our comprehension and that challenges are opportunities for growth. In the face of fear, faith serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path toward inner peace. It provides the assurance that, no matter how daunting the circumstances may be, there is a greater force guiding us through the darkness. Through faith, we find the courage to face our fears head-on, armed with the conviction that we are not alone on our journey.

 

 

Conclusion: 

In the complex tapestry of human emotions, fear is a thread that weaves its way into our lives. However, by embracing the practices of prayer and faith, individuals can unravel the knots of fear, and find inner peace and strength. The journey to overcoming fear through prayer and faith is a deeply personal and transformative one, offering solace, guidance, and the realization that, even in the face of uncertainty, there is a source of unwavering support. As we navigate the challenges of life, may we find courage in prayer, strength in faith, and the resilience to face our fears with grace and confidence.

Is Prayer Important?

Prayer is not only a vital part of the Christian life but also a great privilege and blessing. It is the way we communicate with our heavenly Father, who loves us and cares for us. But what is the importance of prayer? Why should we pray? How should we pray? What are the benefits of prayer?

 

The importance of prayer can be seen from several perspectives. First, prayer is important because it is God's will for us. The Bible commands us to pray in various ways and occasions (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Timothy 2:1-4). God wants us to pray because He wants to hear from us and have a personal relationship with us. He wants us to share our joys and sorrows, our needs and desires, our praises and confessions, our requests and thanksgivings. He wants us to acknowledge His presence and power, His grace and mercy, His sovereignty and wisdom, His holiness and love.

 

Second, prayer is important because it is God's way for us. The Bible teaches us that prayer is the means by which God accomplishes His purposes in our lives and in the world (James 5:16; Matthew 7:7-11; John 14:13-14; Mark 11:24). God works through prayer to reveal His will to us, to guide our steps, to provide our needs, to protect us from harm, to heal our wounds, to deliver us from evil, to strengthen our faith, to transform our character, to equip us for service, to bless us with His gifts, to answer our petitions, to fulfill His promises.

 

Third, prayer is important because it is God's gift to us. The Bible shows us that prayer is a privilege that we enjoy as God's children through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:16; Romans 8:15-16; Ephesians 2:18; Galatians 4:6). God invites us to come to Him with confidence and boldness, knowing that He hears us and cares for us. He welcomes us into His throne room of grace, where we can find mercy and help in time of need. He adopts us into His family, where we can call Him Abba, Father. He grants us access to His presence, where we can experience His joy and peace.

 

The importance of prayer can also be seen in its benefits. Prayer benefits us in many ways. Some of the benefits of prayer are:

 

- Prayer draws us closer to God. As we pray, we commune with God and enjoy His fellowship. We learn more about His character and attributes. We grow in our love and devotion to Him. We deepen our intimacy and friendship with Him.

- Prayer aligns us with God's will. As we pray, we submit to God and surrender our will to Him. We seek His kingdom and righteousness above all else. We acknowledge His lordship and authority over our lives. We conform our thoughts and desires to His mind and heart.

- Prayer changes us for the better. As we pray, we are transformed by God's Spirit and Word. We are renewed in our mind and spirit. We are sanctified in our soul and body. We are molded into the image and likeness of Christ.

- Prayer empowers us for service. As we pray, we receive God's strength and grace. We are filled with His power and wisdom. We are equipped with His gifts and abilities. We are enabled to do His work and will.

- Prayer blesses others through us. As we pray, we intercede for others and minister to their needs. We pray for their salvation and growth. We pray for their healing and deliverance. We pray for their protection and provision. We pray for their peace and joy.

 

Prayer is important because it is God's will, way, and gift for us. It is also beneficial for us and others. Therefore, let us pray without ceasing, with faith and fervor, with humility and sincerity, with gratitude and praise, with confidence and boldness, with joy and hope.