Let's Go to the Gym

"If you seek for her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:4,5

How do we grow deeper in our faith? Let's see what the scriptures tells us and put it into practice, shall we?

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Tim. 3:16,17)

Scripture was God-breathed. It was written by prophets through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit so there were no errors in the original writings (2 Pet. 1:21). It is the infallible and authoritative Word of God. It is available to all who believe, to teach us His truth; showing us sin and how to overcome it; correcting us when we stumble and training us to walk in His righteous ways. It is also available to those who don't yet believe but want to learn the way of Christ and His saving grace so that they may receive the free gift of eternal life. We must saturate our life with the Word just as Paul said to young Timothy in the above verse.

"My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding" (Pro. 2:1,2)

We must desire God's Word. Receiving it, treasuring it and obeying it so that we will know the ways of the Lord. Make it a priority to sit each day and open the Word. Allow it to become a daily habit; you won't regret it.

"Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding." (Pro. 2:3)

Next is developing a prayer life. Study the Word on how to pray through praising (Ps. 45:17), thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6) and confessing your sins (1 John 1:9). We should be praying for our family, friends, neighbors, pastor, church leaders and members, our President and country, and never forget to pray for yourself.

Last but not least be consistent in your walk. 'Walk the talk'. Have integrity, long suffering, kindness and gentleness. Read about Jesus' walk while here on earth and mimic as closely as possible His example. Give yourself grace and ask for forgiveness when you fall short, because you will. Remember He is God and we are not. There was only One who was perfect, but strive everyday for perfection in Him.

"Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path." (Prov. 2:9).

Some of the promised results of fearing Him which comes through a deep faith in your heavenly Father are goodness, riches, honor and satisfaction, a right relationship with others, long life , mercy, strong confidence and God's constant attention.

"Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which you have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!" (Ps. 31:19)

So, what do you say we spend more time in His Word building our faith muscles? I know I need a good work out everyday, do you?

I love you & He loves you more!

Lord, Show us, teach us, have mercy on us. We need you like we need breath in our lungs. Help us to slow down so that we can sit with You with Your glorious Word opened in our lap. Grow our faith deeper as we reach for You more. I love You! In Jesus' precious name I pray. Amen.