Or maybe the question is what do you believe? What are those beliefs, standards, etc. that you stand unwaveringly upon, and what is your authority for these? Do your words and actions confirm this? Do you remember the question about when Jesus returns will He find faith? Do you believe He will return? And, back to the opening question, what do you base your what on?
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in (adheres to, trusts in, relies on) Me [as Savior] will live even if he dies; and everyone who lives and believes in Me [as Savior] will never die. Do you believe this?'” (John 11:25-26 AMP)
You may intellectually agree with Jesus’ words, but do they also have a heart connection? Do the words not only confirm your beliefs but also provide your basis for faith? It may sound simplistic but I believe that Who and What we believe should be evident in our words and actions. Our confidence and character is partially defined by our consistency. And nothing is more elemental nor critical then that we are ‘what you see is what you get’.
“Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people], making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil. Therefore do not be foolish and thoughtless, but understand and firmly grasp what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is wickedness (corruption, stupidity), but be filled with the [Holy] Spirit and constantly guided by Him.” (Ephesians 5:15-18, AMP)
This covers all the ‘whys’ and ‘whats’. And, without using the word, witness, it tells us what our daily actions and mindsets need to be. We have such a strong foundation and with wide pillars to give us strength and protection as we go forth in the day. There can be little doubt that the day is evil… then again, this could probably be applied in every age.
We are told in 1 Peter 3;15
“But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect.”
I would argue that we all display who and what we believe by our words and actions. In the final analysis, perhaps we all are, on some level, saying help my unbelief:
“Jesus said to him, “[You say to Me,] ‘If You can?’ All things are possible for the one who believes and trusts [in Me]!” Immediately the father of the boy cried out [with a desperate, piercing cry], saying, “I do believe; help [me overcome] my unbelief.” ” (Mark 9:23-24, AMP)
I just heard a wonderful comment by Dr. David Jerimiah that shines the light of understanding and focus:
“Put your faith in the One who is with you over that which is around you.”
