Understanding Faith (Part 5)

As Christians we should all desire to be successful in what God has called us to do and be.  True success is determined by our ability to walk by faith and obedience to God.  In this post, I want to share with you five keys to having "great faith."  Following these principles will help you to live a life of faith.

1.  Have A Thorough Understanding Of Submission And Authority

The Bible is full of examples of how people received great miracles simply because they understood submission and authority.  Matthew 8:9-10 the centurions servant was healed because he understood authority and simply told Jesus that all he had to do was "speak" the word and it would be done.  Moses' obedience and submission to God's authority resulted in the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea (Genesis 14:15-16); Peter and the other disciples obeyed Jesus' command and "cast their nets" on the other side of the boat and caught a great number of fish (Luke 5:4-6).  If you want great faith, you must have a good understanding of submission and authority.

2.  Be Convinced Of Jesus' Ability To Do What He Has Promised

We must be fully convinced that God is able to do what He has promised through Jesus Christ.  Abraham was convinced of what God had spoken to him that no longer did he waver at the promise of God, but was fully convinced.  Romans 4:20-22 tells us that Abraham "staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully persuaded that what He promised He was able to perform."  Are you convinced that God is able to perform what He has promised in the New Covenant that was established through Jesus Christ?

3.  Press In Regardless Of The Obstacles

The best example of pressing in regardless of the obstacles is the woman with the issue of blood in Luke 8:43-48.  She had sought help through every means possible and finally went to see Jesus, but the throng of people were keeping her away.  But she continued to "press in" until she touched the hem of Jesus' garment and immediately Jesus knew "power" had left Him and she was healed.  There are many obstacles, disappointments, and trials that will try to cause us to lose heart and not press in.  However, don't give up just because life becomes difficult.  We must continue to press in if we want great faith!

4. Exhibit Boldness In The Midst Of Unbelief and Mockery

When we take steps of faith it sometimes seems foolish to those around us.  But we must press in with boldness regardless of how foolish it may seem or how others may mock us for our belief.

5.  Persistence

In Matthew 15:21-28 Jesus commended the Gentile woman for having great faith.  She had great faith because of her persistent attitude that got Jesus' attention.  She continued to plead her case with humility and respect even after Jesus  didn't initially respond the way she hoped he would.

6.  Act On The Word

Faith is nothing until we ACT!  James 1:22 "But be ye doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.  Are you ready to act on the Word of God?  God's ready!