The initial expression of trust in Jesus is to repent of our sins, confess Him as Lord, and be baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins. As we confess Him as Lord and walk in the light, He continues to wash away our sins as we journey toward heaven. There are important outward expressions of our faith that demonstrate where our heart is:
Attendance – Several times each week we gather together to study His word, worship God as one body, and learn how to please Him more, since He deserves our very lives. We need to make every effort to be here because there is power and wisdom in studying and
worshipping together as God’s family. If we barely make Sunday morning worship perhaps we are sending God a message that other things are more important. When we commit to being here every time possible it demonstrates inner faith and a relationship with God in Christ.
Serving – It is encouraging to see Christians give of their time and talent to help the Lord’s kingdom grow. They consider themselves ministers and express their faith in service. Others possess a “consumer mentality” whereby they act like the church exists to take care of them. I am humbled at the number of great servants here – no doubt it is external evidence of internal faith.
Giving – Every week Christians have the opportunity to give a portion of their financial blessings back to the Lord for the work in His kingdom. Some Christians express their faith and give generously because they are grateful for the tremendous sacrifice Jesus made on their behalf unto salvation. They believe strongly in the many good works in which the church is involved. Others hardly give or give haphazardly just to get by. May we be those kind of Christians with great faith who express our faith in the
thoughtful, disciplined, sacrificial giving for the important ongoing works here.
If you want to know where you are in your faith take a look at your external expressions – it will give you a good
indicator. Then, make a renewed effort and commitment to grow more and more to be like Jesus Christ.
…Mike