 What is faith? I'm sure everyone here has struggled with this subject at one time or another. We are told in the Scriptures that "faith without works is dead" (see James 2:14-18). Therefore belief without action doesn't work! There is an old Chinese proverb which says; "To know and to not do, is to not know." In the Scriptures we find this, "For this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou has sent" (John 17:3). So in order to know God and Jesus Christ, and have faith in their program, we have to do something about it. Now I can know for a fact that the light in this room can be turned on and off. But it takes some effort to make it happen, right? So, in a spiritual sense, the faithful Saint is full of faith not just because he/she believes, but because he/she is a doer of the word and not just a hearer only (see James 1:22). Actions do speak louder than words. Spirituality is a verb. Religion is a noun. There is a great Mormon hymn which is titled "The Gospel of Peace." Just for a moment, change the word "Gospel" to "Lifestyle." "The Lifestyle of Peace." A lifestyle requires the dos and don'ts, laws or rules, in order to acquire the certain living standard needed. Well, if peace is our goal, then the lifestyle (or plan) is to live the laws and do the ordinances which are designed to bring about this desired effect. The Lord tells us that he is bound to bless us if we do what he says, but if we do not, we have no promise. We also need to avoid those situations where we know we are vulnerable and could fall and lose the blessings the Lord has in store for us. How sad it is to see (as the Scriptures point out) those who seek happiness in doing iniquity (see Helaman 13:38). For wickedness never was happiness (Alma 41:10). If someone wants to be in shape physically, the strategy is simple; here is what you need to do, and here is what you need to avoid. The same thing applies to our spiritual health. It begins with desire to believe. Let's take this plant over here, and let's call it a testimony. It started out as a seed which was planted in good, rich soil. Now, in order for this plant to blossom and grow, it needs water, air and sunshine. Not just for awhile, but it needs continued, consistent nurturing in order for it to develop and fulfill it's designed measure. Our testimonies are exactly like a plant. Within each of us, there is a seed of hope and desire waiting to be nourished. The soil which are the commandments, rules or laws of God are the nutrients that hold us together. The water comes from sincere prayer as we thirst for righteousness. The air fills our spirit as we breath in the words of Christ found in the Scriptures and modern day revelation. And then the sunshine follows those who get involved in the church and who bask in the friendship and fellowship of the saints. Many people I know have said to me, "Why do I need a church? I can find God in my closet or outdoors in the woods!" It's true, you can find God there and everywhere you turn. For his hand is manifested in everyone and in everything you see and hear. However, if you look closely in Ephesians 4:11-14, in the Bible, it clarifies the reason Christ organized his church on this earth. "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelist; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Til we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive." Another great Scripture which goes hand in hand with that one reads: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you" (3 Nephi 13:33 - Matthew 6:33). The kingdom of God is His Church on this earth. The righteousness in which he speaks of is His Gospel which is designed to bring forth faith and all these things which are added unto you are happiness, peace, joy and the other fruits of the spirit. So when you hear the word "faith," remember this last Scripture in James 2:18 which says: "I will shew thee my faith by My works." This is my faith and testimony to you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.  
Website Designed and Maintained by Terri Shoemaker ~ © 2006 Jay Osmond - All Rights Reserved |