How To Live By Faith In A World Of Fear?
Live by faith in a world of fear, despite the pandemic having created much pandemonium. A chaos which has led to people doing some things which was required anyways. For example - staying clean, necessary travel, engaging with family, etc.
Fear has been the primary motivator for most to pick up good habits. Believers are adhering to outward disciplines like it were dogma. It's encouraging when we pick up good habits but how we are being influenced is critical.
It’s very clear we understand the need for an outward discipline and cleanliness. What about the critical discipline and cleanliness of the heart and mind?
Live by faith in a world of fear by loving God with all your heart
King Hezekiah restored Israel's worship scene after a long time. Since King Solomon and David, Israel's praise and worship of God was a broken down affair. An on and off, casual relationship with Israel whoring away with demonic worship.
We learn in 2 Chronicles 30:18-20 how despite some not being ceremoniously clean were allowed. How was that possible? Because of Hezekiah's love for God and prayer to pardon them all. This was a huge event and the need of the hour was everyone coming together with one accord. Which was evident in those who came despite being religiously unclean.
This reveals how God is the same, yesterday, today and forever. He sees the heart. Yet, we need to do what is essential. A heart cleansing also results in outward obedience as well (for the right reasons). Listen to your Spirit-anointed Pastor. Hezekiah recognised the mind of God. He knew God was loving enough to forgive some of them. Allowing them to take part even though they were not outwardly purified at that time.
Every New Testament believer needs to walk in Godly discipline and sanctification. Not by being afraid of God but in the realisation of His love and power. God does not force anyone to follow His ways. He drives us by His love, not fear.
Worldly fear pushes people to do what they don’t want to do. A believer who loves God is transformed in the fear of God (love) to do what God desires. Many fail in their walk of faith because they have a false version of God before them.
Know the difference. Understand the believers need. Surrender daily. Then God will help us love and live by faith in a world of fear everyday. Maranatha, praise God and amen!