Two men stood at the foot of an old, narrow bridge. "It looks sturdy," declared the young man. "I am sure it will hold us when we cross. There should be no problem. Look at that reliable construction. Look at the width of those wood beams. I am sure it will be fine."

The other man just stood there quietly surveying the bridge. Then, he headed out across the bridge.

Let me ask you a question: Who had faith that the bridge was strong enough to hold them? Was it the one who professed it was sturdy or the one who walked across?

Faith is more than just believing. Faith is putting into action what you believe. If you never act upon what you believe, then you are not expressing your faith. You can talk all day about God's strength and protection, but if you never act on it--if you never step out--your faith is dead.

"Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:15-17).

Faith is putting into action what you believe. It's not just waiting around for God to come down and zap you. It's taking what you believe and acting upon it.

Many times, I've been able to act upon my faith in God. When the fear comes crashing in, I respond by not running away from the fear and not fighting those unwanted thoughts. I rest in God's promise that he will keep me safe and protect me. I have put into action what I believe.

Many people profess their faith in God, but that faith will be tested. My faith was tested a few years ago. I boldly declared my confidence in God. I knew God was strong and that he would protect me. Then, the trouble hit and my life crumbled. My faith was nothing more than vain declarations. I really didn't believe what I was saying. Faith is tested to show you where you are strong and where you are weak.

You may ask, "Where do I start? How can I believe God? How can I express my faith?"

Start by praying for faith--faith to rest in God's promises when those anxious thoughts comes crashing in. Read the Bible to learn about his promises and his faithfulness. God is faithful. Unlike that bridge, God will not sway or break. Our Father is strong and steadfast. He will not fail you.

Blessings!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
|  web:    http://www.season.org

© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission