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O For A Faith That Will Not Shrink The result of exercising our spiritual senses unto discernment (cf. Heb. 5:14) should be spiritual growth/maturity that will be seen in our faith, a faith that will not shrink but rather is one that is pleasing to God. |
O For A Faith That Will Not Shrink
The result of exercising our spiritual senses unto discernment (cf. Heb. 5:14) should be spiritual growth/maturity that will be seen in our faith, a faith that will not shrink but rather is one that is pleasing to God. As the song we will consider indicates such is a faith that:
- Will Stand (rather than shrink in face of opposition or persecution)
- One can know he will face some persecution in the Christian life (2 Tim. 3:12; Matt. 5:10-12)
- Question is, what will we do in that situation? (Matt. 13:20-23; Heb. 10:38-39; 1 Pet. 5:8-9; James 5:10-11; Heb. 11:36-12:4).
- Will Grow (rather than complain, it will learn to trust God and accept discipline)
- Likewise the Christian can expect some correction/discipline in life (2 Tim. 3:16-17; Heb. 12:5-11).
- Again, we have to choose what to do with it (Prov. 12:1; 15:32; 2 Cor. 1:3-4, 8-10; James 1:2-4).
- Will Shine (rather than doubt or fear, it will be an example to others)
- Doubt and fear will cause us to draw back, be silent; faith ought to drive us to stand out (Ps. 118:6; Heb. 13:6; Matt. 10:26-39).
- Stand out in the way we live and evangelism (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 2:15-16; Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 8:4; 2 Tim. 4:2; 1 Pet. 3:13-15).
- Will Hope (regardless of what may come, we will trust in God and look forward with expectation to our eternal home).
- Regardless of what it meant enduring Paul trusted God and walked with Him (2 Tim. 1:12, 4:6-8; Rom. 8:18).
- Such a one has confidence in God and His promises now and in eternity (Jn 10:10; Mk 10:29-30; Jms 1:12; Rev 2:10; 1 Jn 5:13)
