Exploring The Intricacies Of Exercising Faith

Exercising faith is a concept that appears in the Bible, specifically in the New World Translation, and is often associated with the idea of putting faith into action through good works. The phrase exercise faith is used in several passages, including John 3:16, Mark 5:36, John 12:36, John 14:1, and 2 Corinthians 4:13. The original Greek term pisteuomen conveys the basic meaning of believe or put trust on. However, the inclusion of exercise suggests a conditional aspect to faith, implying that faith must be demonstrated through actions to achieve salvation. This interpretation aligns with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, emphasizing the importance of both faith and good works.

Faith as trust when under attack

Faith is a gift from God, and it is up to us to exercise it. Faith is like a muscle that needs to be used and developed. If we do not exercise our faith, we will lose it.

There are times when our faith is tested. We may feel 'under attack' and face many challenges, such as temptations, doubts, and fears. During these trials, faith means trusting in God and believing that he will protect us and set us free.

The Bible offers many examples of people who persevered through trials due to their faith. One such example is Moses, who persevered with courage and determination. He 'persevered because he saw him who is invisible' (Hebrews 11:27). Moses kept his trust in God and, as a result, was able to lead his people out of slavery.

Another example is David, one of the most tried and tested figures in the Bible. David remained faithful to God and trusted in Him, and God protected him from raging torrents and from being 'swallowed alive' (Psalm 124:3).

When we are under attack, we can follow the examples of Moses and David by choosing to have faith, persevering through challenges, and trusting in God's protection and goodness.

Additionally, it is important to remember that faith is more than just an inner feeling or oral statement; it must be accompanied by actions or 'works'. As James 2:26 states, "faith without deeds is dead." Our faith should be evident through our actions and how we live our lives.

In conclusion, when we are under attack, we can exercise our faith by choosing to trust in God, persevering through challenges, and allowing our faith to guide our actions.

Faith as a choice

Faith is a choice. It is an intentional act that requires courage and perseverance.

The story of Moses in the Bible illustrates this point. Moses was brought up in privilege, receiving a first-class education and training in the Egyptian royal household. He had the world at his feet and could have chosen a life of luxury and pleasure. Instead, he chose to identify with a group of people that his contemporaries held in contempt – a slave nation, the people of God. Moses made this choice because he valued his faith more than the fleeting pleasures of the world. He chose to be ill-treated alongside the people of God, enduring danger, scorn, and suffering.

The concept of faith as a choice is further reinforced by the story of Noah in the Bible. Noah exercised his faith by building an ark, despite facing ridicule and opposition from his neighbours. He boldly witnessed and warned his contemporaries of God's coming judgment, demonstrating his unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

Faith is not a passive belief but an active choice that requires courage and perseverance. It involves trusting in God, leaning our whole weight upon Jesus, and having the courage to act on our beliefs. This choice may lead to challenges and trials, but it also brings the promise of an everlasting reward.

The Bible emphasizes that faith is more than just an inner feeling or oral statement; it must be accompanied by actions or "works." James, the brother of Jesus, wrote, "faith without works is dead," highlighting that true faith leads to good deeds and obedience to God's commands. This notion of "exercising faith" is reflected in Bible passages such as Mark 5:36, John 12:36, John 14:1, and 2 Corinthians 4:13.

In conclusion, faith is a choice that requires us to actively trust in God, follow His commands, and persevere through challenges. It is a choice that shapes our actions and leads us towards an everlasting reward.

Faith as perseverance

Faith is often described as a choice, a trust, and an expectancy. However, faith is also an act of perseverance.

The story of Moses in the Bible is a testament to this. Moses left Egypt twice. The first time, he was fleeing as a criminal, and the second time, he left as the leader of the people of God. In between his two departures, Moses persevered with courage and determination. He persevered because he saw the invisible God and had faith in him. This is the kind of faith that gives us the strength to persevere.

The Bible also tells us about the faith of Noah, who persevered in building an ark despite the mockery of his neighbors. Noah's faith moved him to witness boldly and warn his contemporaries of God's coming judgment.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul wrote about the importance of exercising our faith. He compared faith to a plant that needs watering to stay alive. If we neglect our faith, it will wither and die. We must keep our faith strong through prayer and study of God's Word.

Faith is a gift from God, but it is up to us to use it and persevere in our spiritual journey.

Faith as expectancy

Expectancy is a "joy-filled looking forward to receiving a desired result." It is the belief that God will perform mighty works and miracles, as demonstrated by Moses, who heard and obeyed God's commands. Moses demonstrated his faith by trusting in God's power to perform signs and wonders, such as the crossing of the Red Sea.

Additionally, faith as expectancy is about trusting in God's power to perform healings and wonders. It is not just a passive belief but an active expectation that God will act and intervene in our lives. This expectancy is what motivates Christians to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others.

In conclusion, faith as expectancy is a vital aspect of Christian faith. It involves trusting in God's power, believing in His ability to transform weaknesses, and expecting Him to perform mighty works. By having faith as expectancy, Christians can remain steadfast in their belief and actively share their faith with others.

Faith as submission to the sovereignty of God

Faith is a strengthening quality, a powerful motivating force that impels a person to act in harmony with God's will. It involves trusting in God, leaning on Jesus, and having the courage to act on one's beliefs.

Faith is more than just believing in God's ability; it also involves submitting to God's sovereignty. God's sovereignty refers to His lordship or rule over all creation as the sovereign Lord. This includes three main aspects:

• Control: God has a plan for all of nature and history, and everything happens according to His plan and intention. Nothing can prevent Him from accomplishing His purpose.
• Authority: As the sovereign Lord, God's authority is absolute, and all His commands ought to be obeyed. His authority transcends all other loyalties and covers all areas of human life.
• Presence: God is omnipresent and covenants with His creatures, fighting their battles, blessing them, loving them, and disciplining them as a loving Father.

Jesus himself led the disciples into a storm, demonstrating that following Christ can lead to trouble and that God has a place for both storms and still waters in our lives. J. C. Ryle, a theologian, noted that Christ often leads us into storms, and we should expect our share of crosses and sorrows as believers.

Therefore, faith involves submitting to God's sovereignty, recognizing His rule and authority over our lives, and trusting that He is in control even during difficult times. This submission is an essential aspect of our relationship with God and is an act of trust and dependence on His wisdom and power.

Practical Examples of Faith as Submission to God's Sovereignty

Faith as a Choice

Moses, despite his privileged upbringing in the Egyptian royal household, chose to identify with God's people, the Israelites, who were slaves. He endured danger, scorn, and suffering because he regarded disgrace for Christ as more valuable than the treasures of Egypt.

Faith as Perseverance

Moses persevered with courage and determination, leaving Egypt twice—first as a fugitive and then as the leader of God's people. He persevered despite the challenges, keeping his trust in God and His promises.

Faith as Expectancy

Moses heard and obeyed God, believing in His power to perform signs and wonders, such as the crossing of the Red Sea. He expected God to perform mighty works, and this trust in God's power is an essential aspect of faith.

In conclusion, faith as submission to the sovereignty of God involves recognizing and submitting to God's rule, authority, and presence in our lives. It is a choice to follow God, to persevere in faith despite challenges, and to expectantly trust in His power and plan for our lives.

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