We have come to know and to believe in the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in them. – 1 John 4:16
Understanding Our Faith
When we think about knowing what we believe, we realize how vital it is for us to understand our faith deeply. Our beliefs shape our actions and guide our lives. God desires us to have a solid foundation in His truth so we can stand firm against the challenges that may come our way. Understanding our faith not only strengthens our relationship with God but also empowers us to share His love with others. It’s important for us to struggle with our doubts and seek clarity to better grasp the core tenets of our beliefs.
Colossians 2:6-7
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” – Colossians 2:6-7
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15
Titus 1:9
“He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” – Titus 1:9
Philippians 1:9-10
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” – Philippians 1:9-10
2 Timothy 2:15
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15
Recognizing Truth in God’s Word
As we explore knowing what we believe, we find our foundation in God’s Word is key. The Bible is not just a book; it is the living truth that guides and informs every aspect of our beliefs. When we immerse ourselves in scripture, we learn more about God’s promises, His character, and His desires for us. This means having the tools we need to discern truth when faced with what the world may try to tell us. It’s essential for us as believers to know scripture well enough to recognize the truths it shares with us.
John 17:17
“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” – John 17:17
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12
Matthew 4:4
“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'” – Matthew 4:4
2 Peter 1:20-21
“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” – 2 Peter 1:20-21
Faith and Doubt
In our journey of faith, it’s natural for us to experience moments of doubt. Understanding that questioning what we believe is a part of our growth helps us find clarity and strength. We can turn to God in our uncertainty, laying bare our doubts and asking for wisdom and reassurance. By facing our questions, we solidify our foundation and learn to embrace the truth God has shared with us, proving that true faith can coexist with honest inquiry.
Mark 9:24
“Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” – Mark 9:24
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Matthew 14:31
“Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’” – Matthew 14:31
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Building Confidence in Beliefs
Knowing what we believe strengthens our confidence as Christians. As we learn and grow together in faith, we can encourage one another and share insights, creating a community of strength that thrives on collective wisdom. The more we become secure in what we believe, the more effective we become in our daily lives. Confidence allows us to step boldly into the world, proclaiming our faith and the hope found in Christ. Together, let us lift each other up and grow stronger in our beliefs.
Ephesians 3:12
“In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.” – Ephesians 3:12
Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Sharing Our Beliefs
Once we have a firm grasp of what we believe, the call to share our faith becomes clear. It is our duty as Christians to be ambassadors of Christ in our community. We mustn’t be shy about sharing what we know, as our testimony can ignite hope and spark interest in others. Together, we can create circles of faith by discussing our beliefs and encouraging others to explore their own questions. Sharing makes our faith vibrant and strengthens it even further.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” – Romans 1:16
1 Thessalonians 2:8
“We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well because you had become so dear to us.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:8
2 Timothy 4:2
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” – 2 Timothy 4:2
Living in Assurance
Finally, knowing what we believe gives us assurance that cannot be shaken. Despite the ups and downs of life, we come back to the promises of God that sustain us. Understanding His love and sacrifice provides us with a peaceful anchor in difficult times. Assurance helps us embrace each day with confidence, trusting that we are held in God’s grace and mercy. Together, let’s ensure we nurture this assurance within ourselves and cultivate it among one another.
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39
John 10:28-29
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” – John 10:28-29
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
1 Corinthians 1:8
“He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 1:8
2 Timothy 1:12
“That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.” – 2 Timothy 1:12
Final Thoughts
In our quest to know what we believe, we have the incredible opportunity to grow closer to God and strengthen our faith. Understanding our beliefs takes us beyond surface-level knowledge, allowing us to personally engage with God’s Word and absolutely embrace His truths. As we experience moments of doubt, we are reminded that it is okay to question, as God welcomes us into a genuine conversation. Together, let us build our confidence in what we know and courageously share it with others.
As we develop a deeper connection with God, we are reassured of our hope and salvation in Jesus Christ. Let us maintain our assurance, grounded in the promises of His unfailing love. Through this, we can shine a light in our community, helping others discover their own beliefs and encouraging discussion. We are empowered to be instruments of His grace, vibrant in our faith.
If you desire to expand your knowledge further, consider exploring the foundation of our faith through these topics: foundation of faith and foundation in Christ. Together, we can keep growing in Christ and encouraging one another to walk firmly in truth.