To those who sought God, He gave them understanding. And, as their faith grew, they had even more faith. As they understood Jesus’ Word, they could understand even more. As the served God, their service grew.
To those who had no faith in God, to those who were unwilling to serve Him, they lost everything, “their foolish hearts were darkened” and they lost their way.
The test of Isaac’s faith was whether he would pass on the “promissory note” to his children. We ONLY pass on the things we truly believe in.
How many times have we quenched the Spirit with icy-cold waters of logic? How often have we felt God tug on our hearts… but calculated our way out of responding? “It doesn’t ‘add-up’?”, we say. So we keep our feet firmly inside the boat, because we know no one can “walk on water”.
In the end, the battle is fought on the grounds of FAITH: do we believe that Jesus did all for us, that He will manifest His righteousness in us despite all apparent evidence to the contrary?
Intellectuals often say, “When we know, we will do.” Jesus taught, “No, when you do you will know.” According to Jesus, when you apply His teaching to your life you will know by the way the truth He teaches changes your life that His teaching is not the teaching of a man but the very teachings of God.
This year’s research reveals that skepticism toward the Bible continues to rise. For the first time since tracking began, Bible skepticism is tied with Bible engagement. The number of those who are skeptical or agnostic toward the Bible—who believe that the Bible is “just another book of teachings written by men that contains stories and advice”—has nearly doubled from 10% to 19% in just three years. This is now equal to the number of people who are Bible engaged—who read the Bible at least four times a week and believe it is the actual or inspired Word of God…
…Given the increase in Millennials who don’t believe the Bible is sacred and the decrease in Bible awareness among Millennials, Bible skepticism will likely continue to rise in the next five years.
There is still much confusion among Believers regarding the role of Baptism: Specifically, whether or not Baptism is required for salvation. There is much already written on this subject; nevertheless, it will addressed here because of its importance and its thorniness.
This survey [points] out common gaps in theological knowledge and awareness so that Christians might be more effective in the proclamation, teaching, and defense of the essential truths of the Christian faith.
I thank Thee, Lord, that here our souls
Though amply blessed,
Can never find, although they seek
A perfect rest;
Nor ever shall, until they lean
On Jesus’ breast.
We are told that nothing shall separate us from God’s love for us. And that is greatly comforting, even inspirational. However, it is difficult to remember this truth and walk in this truth when trials come into our lives.
Reflections in The WORD 