Confidence in God
For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
Psalms 34:4 (NIV)
Consider: Just a few weeks ago, the Huffington Post reported that only 28% of people in America believe the Bible is actually true. There has been a continual decline in Americans confidence in God’s Word. In the 1970s, some 40% of Americans believed in the Bible. What has happened? Has the church lost its emphasis on scripture? Or have the people who make up the church damaged its witness? Both are true. Yet we live in an increasing skeptical society where it’s crucial for believers to have confidence in God’s word as authoritative and true, lest we adopt the world’s view, that believing in the truth of God’s Word is foolish, old-fashioned, or naive.
I have good news, which I think will build your confidence. We have looked at God’s Word over the last twenty days, and we've seen how prophecies made concerning the coming Messiah have been fulfilled. From the birth location to the virgin Mary to his very own name, we have seen promises made and promises kept. God’s Word is true.
Supporting the historical reliability of God’s Word could be the tipping point for many skeptics in our culture, but I think there is more. I believe what could give people more confidence in God’s Word is you—your personal testimony. Knowing who Jesus and how he works in the lives of his people leads more people to Christ than proving the validity of our scripture. We do need more knowledge about the Bible, but the greatest gift to humanity is not facts or information, it is a personal relationship with Jesus. As I have worked through my own doubts in my faith, I do indeed find confidence in seeing the reliability of God’s Word, especially here in this Christmas season, but Jesus’s love is best demonstrated through your behavior, not your beliefs. Jesus said it best.
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 (ESV)
In other words, the greatest testimony to Christ is our love for others. It’s not how much we know, it’s how much care. It’s not how clear and convincing we come across, it’s how deeply we love people.
Apply: Let’s take time to build each other up and care for the people we interact with. Our mission as a church is to share and show the love of Christ to the people of the North Valley and beyond. Take time this week to do one act of kindness for someone outside of your usual circle.
Pray: Lord, help me to be loving. I want to be a witness to the world; I want to be a faithful follower of your will and your ways. Use me today. Reveal to my mind who you might have me show your love to today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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