Tasty Faith

“Larry J. Henry reports that his family bought a microwave, and can now cook a hot dog in less than two minutes. “We want instant everything,” he says. “But as nice as ‘instant’ is, it is still hard to beat a good old-fashioned home-made stew that has simmered for hours on the stove. Some things just take time.” Christian maturity is like that. We would all like to have the kind of faith that moves mountains, and we want it right now! But for God to develop that kind of faith in us, He must let it simmer for awhile” (preaching.com).

It is the struggles of life that often provide the simmering heat for a strong, mature faith. And while the struggles may be unpleasant, they can also be viewed as a joy because of their faith-building properties. James says: “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4).

Peter must have had the same Teacher as James because he says the same thing: “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Paul must have had the same Teacher as Peter: “And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope…” (Romans 5:3-4).

The savory stew of an enduring faith is simmered over the flames of struggle. Without the heat, we are left with a watery mix of ingredients that never come together as they should. That doesn’t sound very appetizing, does it?  Lord, help me to have a tasty faith.

God loves you!

Mike