FAITH IN AN EVIL WORLD

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. (1 John 5:4 ESV)

Maintaining a true Christian faith is not easy in this world. Life offers so many paths of compromise that it is easy to lose your way. John Murray wrote the following on this subject:

If the faith we profess is a faith that allows us to walk in the ways of this present evil world, in the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, in the fellowship and works of darkness, then our faith is mockery and deception. Repentance results in constant contrition. The broken spirit and contrite heart are abiding marks in the believing soul. Not one that we progressively get, but abiding. They are there from the beginning and they’re ongoing. A new attitude. Not just about Jesus and who He is, but about our sin, who we are, what we deserve, and the hating of the things we used to love. Without it, there is no salvation. (John Murray, Professor of Systematic Theology, Westminster Theological Seminary)

Faith hears God’s Word and responds in obedience. The absence of faith leads to disobedience. Without faith, we cannot confidently follow God.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 ESV)

A lack of faith may be overcome by filling ourselves with the Scriptures. Paul reminds us of this:

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:17 ESV)

Faith is the foundation of a Christian’s character. He knows Jesus Christ by faith and trusts Him with his soul. Such a one is very aware of his own many sins, but he also knows he has a mighty Savior who intercedes on his behalf. The sincere Christian consistently seeks to rid himself of the thoughtless, sinful, and unreasoning ways of the world. Such character will without hesitation fight the good fight of faith in order to glorify God and proclaim eternal life by His grace. (1 Timothy 6:12 ESV)

Lord, may our thoughts be born of faith
Nourished by simple prayer,
Strong in Your wise and sovereign power,
Sure in Your tender care.

(Lord, May Our Thoughts Begin with You, Ken Bible)