Establishing a Deep Relationship with God: The Promise of Faith
Our journey in faith is not about merely expecting what God can do for us, but about standing on the promises of God by affirming His faithfulness and building a personal relationship with Him. Holding a hundred percent faith in Him and nurturing a genuine, intimate relationship with Him transforms our perspective. Just as in any meaningful human relationship, it's not merely about what one can receive, but equally about what one can give.
Strengthening the Two-Way Relationship with God
A true relationship with God is a two-way street. This means that we must ask ourselves, 'What can I do for Him?' alongside 'What can He do for me?' A relationship with God, much like a relationship with any person, is not meant to be one-sided. It is characterized by both giving and receiving. As we grow closer to Him, our focus shifts from what He can do for us to recognizing all He has already done for us. Eventually, our desire to give back grows, and our sense of self diminishes in comparison.
This transformation happens naturally through a close relationship with God. As we deepen our faith and trust in Him, worldly pursuits that once seemed important begin to fade away. Our primary focus becomes knowing and experiencing God's love, forgiveness, and guidance.
Unwavering Faith in God's Promises
God has made countless promises throughout His Word, and one of His most robust promises is found in 1 Kings 8:56, which states, 'There has not failed one word of all His good promises which He promised through His servant Moses.' In 2 Corinthians 1:20, we read, 'All the promises of God are “Yes” in Jesus Christ.' These promises are not just pious words but are backed by the unchanging character of God. In Hebrews 6:18, we are assured, 'God is able to keep His promise, for it is impossible for God to lie.' Thus, God's promises serve as the ultimate rule of faith and the highest law for believers.
God's promises are perpetual and endure forever. His words do not perish, as we see in Matthew 24:34, 'This generation shall not pass till all these things be fulfilled.' Such assurances highlight the reliability and trustworthiness of God. Remembering that God is the one sure Promise Keeper, we can take Him at His word and trust His promises completely.
Confronting Misconceptions About God's Promises
It is crucial to clarify misconceptions about God's promises. The deity referred to as 'god' is not a mere noun but a personal being who embodies perfect faithfulness. The god of the Bible is not a liar who sets humans up to fail from the start. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible does not depict an untrustworthy deity but rather one who offers unequivocal promises of forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life.
The Fallacy of Faith and Its Fruitlessness
Some argue that God's promises, such as those concerning death after consuming the forbidden fruit, were not kept. However, this interpretation misses the overarching narrative. When Adam and Eve ate of the tree, God's curse (Genesis 3:14-19) was not an arbitrary act of cruelty but part of a redemptive plan. The consequences of their actions led to labor pains for women, the struggle for sustenance for men, and the animosity between snakes and people. These were not punishments, but God's way of guiding them towards a deeper understanding of the need for a savior.
The snake's slithering on the ground and eating dust symbolize its exclusion from humanity's spiritual realm, rather than a personal curse. This event is a prelude to the promised Messiah who would crush the serpent's head, offering a pathway to salvation and eternal life.
Conclusion: Trusting in God's Promises
Ultimately, the god of the Bible is not a fickle deity but one who keeps promises and seeks the heart of His people. Through faith and a personal relationship with Him, we can trust in His promises of life, forgiveness, and abundant blessings. Let us hold Him at His word and work to grow closer to Him, knowing that our relationship with Him is a two-way street of giving and receiving eternal grace.