Daily Faith and the Christian: Three Reasons to Stand in Faith

Image by MSO Clipart

Everything created has a beginning and an end. We expect things at some point in time to stop. However, as Christians, there is something that we cannot ever stop doing; that is, we cannot stop believing in our God. Foundational to the Christian life is the ability to have faith; that is, believe. Without a belief in the work of God through Jesus Christ, one cannot enter into salvation. Moreover, the obtained salvation cannot be maintained without an ever growing faith, hope, and belief in God.

Our belief in God has to go beyond a general belief in His existence. It has to expand to a solid belief in His power and ability to move on our behalf. Why do Christians stop believing that God is willing to move on their behalf? Even after He has done so many things apparently, it can still be difficult to trust Him. Many are double-minded: they swing between believing and not believing. Yet, it is time now to strengthen our faith in Christ again. We have to have a daily, active faith in our Christian walk.

Christians may not wrestle with belief in His existence, but they do wrestle with belief in His willingness to intervene in their life affairs. In this state, spiritual development is frustrated. This type of erroneous thinking frustrates many. Causes for this thinking vary from individual to individual. Some do not believe because they do not think they deserve anything from God. Others feel that they have done so much wrong that God could not possibly hear their requests. Yet, others feel that if they are not a “called” person then God is not concerned about them. All of these thoughts are inconsistent with sound biblical doctrine. Here are 3 reasons why a Christian must not stop believing in God (through prayers) who will walk with them daily:

1. We are instructed to pray. Jesus taught on numerous occasions concerning prayer. He said that we are to always pray and not faint. The parable He used demonstrated that even though we may have to pray about a situation more than once, it does not mean we will not get our request. We should come to Him in prayer, again, because He said so. He gives an open invitation. Why not receive it?

2. We are instructed to pray in expectation. He told us to ask in faith, believing we will receive from Him. Though there are times when our requests are rejected (for our benefit nonetheless), we can never stop believing that He will give us what we have asked for. He said that everyone that asks will receive. Jesus said that if our earthly fathers knew how to give good things, how much more our heavenly Father. If you are bold enough to make the supplication, He is God enough to perform it.

3. We are instructed to pray so that God would receive glory. When we pray and God answers accordingly, He receives glory. How? We bring glory to His name personally and as tell others of His good works towards us. God receives no glory in unanswered prayers. Trust that He will do it for you. Develop your times of prayer before Christ. Do not doubt His presence and power to perform your requests. If it is not in His will, He will give you peace in the midst of it. Remember, never accept defeat in faith: Don’t Stop Believing.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful.

The Insomniac’s Survival Kit – Three Stimulating Benefits

mr_540ab204daf8e7Today’s fast-paced society has resulted in many Americans now suffering occasionally with insomnia. However, there are many people, especially women who are now suffering from insomnia at higher rates. In spite of using medications and changing one’s diet and even seen a psychologist, many people still have to deal with this enemy of rest, sleep, and relaxation.

Insomnia, for varying reasons, can have numerous negative effects on the quality of life of the sufferer. It can affect one’s relationships, physical health, and emotional well-being. In spite of these, insomnia can still be of benefit, depending on one’s outlook and management. Though some people have serious causes for their insomnia (health and mental), many people who suffer from insomnia are basically healthy, but still contend with it. So, I have compiled a short list of insomnia’s benefits (yes, I said benefits!) for those who choose to employ them. These can be used as part of an Insomniac’s Survival Kit.

Now, let us examine three beneficial aspects of insomnia that I discovered through necessity and survival. If you adopt these outlook and practices, you, too, can survive its negative effects.

I. Insomnia can stimulate Productivity. When I first began to deal with sleepless nights, I spent most of the time lamenting the fact that I was tired and could not sleep. This made the nights even more unbearable and unending. So, I decided that I had to do something or I would unravel emotionally from the misery. I began to use the night time to complete work related tasks (especially writing) and other household chores and responsibilities. In this way, if I had to stay up at least something got accomplished. I started to leave certain things unattended to, so that I would have something to do until my body allowed me to sleep.

II. Insomnia can stimulate Personal Growth. I know it sounds hokey, but it is true. Because insomnia leaves you feeling vulnerable and alone (since others are asleep), you can have time to consider your life and its direction. You have time to consider relationships and family, which could prove to be of great benefit.

III. Insomnia can stimulate Pleasure and Appreciation. Simply put, you will find a greater pleasure and appreciation for times of rest, especially the glorious sleep that others take for granted. Personally, when I am able to rest and sleep well, those are some of the best times of my day. It may sound simple, but it does provide some comfort in spite of the many of nights of sleeplessness and restlessness.

There you have it! These may not be for everyone. But I have discovered a way to look beyond the misery and discomfort and improve my quality of living. Can insomnia be a pain? The answer is a resounding, “YES!” However, if you make efforts to change your outlook, you, too, can discover some beneficial aspects to insomnia.

If this does not help, there is always the emergency survival kit: DONUTS, DRUGS (legal, of course), and sheer DETERMINATION. LOL!

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 1,857 other followers