the greatest proof of your faith
there is one thing that proves the reality of your faith more than any other. its not how:
- often you “go to” church
- much of the Bible you know
- involved you are in outreach and missions
- much money you give
- long you pray
those are all outward actions that prove little of the reality of what’s in your heart. there is an area however that reveals what is in your heart. it clearly reveals what you believe about God. that one area? your relationships.
knowing God is a complete relational experience. we know Him through relationship and what He does for us is completely relational: forgiveness, grace, mercy, love, redemption, and intimacy are all relational!
the Scriptures make it clear that the real evidence of this type of love invading our heart is when it spills over into the relationships we have with others. Here is one simple verse from the myriad that explain this same truth.
Beloved (relational term), let us love one another (relational term), for love (relational term) is from God, and whoever loves (relational term) has been born of God (relational term). 1 John 4:7
When you stop to evaluate your faith today ask yourself these questions about how you relate to the people God has put in your life:
- Am I quick to forgive when others offend?
- Do I know how to be patient and longsuffering?
- Do I find joy in sacrificing for others?
- Do I show favor and grace when someone may be deserving of anger and justice?
- Am I more concerned with being loved or with showing love?
- Am I able to love those who are challenging to love?
- Is the place my relationships are best within my home?
- Have I tried to reconcile with others I have been in conflict with?
- Do I show the same kind of love to others that God has shown to me?
