This just in from our global online tribe: How do I know if I have lower-case belief or CAPITAL B Belief?
Despite its simplicity, this is a question of profound significance and deep spiritual consequence. Why? Because its answer provides a way to monitor–on a daily basis–the depth of our belief in God.
The best place to start your search to determine if your belief is CAPITAL B Belief comes in answering this piercing question: Does what you do in living out your faith GLORIFY GOD?
“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Hebrews 11:6
The things we do that, on the outside surface, comport with what God commands–“be kind and compassionate” (Ephesians 4:32) for example—could be missing God’s mark if they come from an untrusting heart that leaves him out of the process.
The goal is to have our belief in God produce actions that GO BEYOND external conformity to him and, instead, rely on his grace, redemptive promise, and unconditional support.
Nothing we do–no matter how kind or good or shiny it looks to outsiders–is pleasing to God if it is not supported by a deep trust of God for EVERYTHING running through our veins and encasing our soul.
It is the strengthening of our faith and our expression of that faith that showcases the glory of God’s grace in our life (1 Peter 4:11). If we trust and depend on God in our obedience and service, he will always—as is appropriate and necessary–get the glory.
The takeaway? What we do in reliance on God will always seek to glorify Jesus while showcasing God’s GOODNESS. And it will always involve our TRUST in God’s grace and power to equip us to pull it off (2 Thessalonians 1:11–12).
We started this message with a great question: How does a Christian know if they have lower-case belief or CAPITAL B Belief?
The answer?
Believing with a CAPITAL B means our faith walk and actions are: 1) Shaped by God’s Word; 2) Powered by God himself; and 3) Executed to bring God glory.
I ask God to discipline me every day to make sure my faith walk and actions are: 1) Shaped by HIS Word; 2) Powered by HIM; and 3) Executed to bring HIM glory.
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
Is your faith walk: 1) Shaped by God’s Word; 2) Powered by God himself; and 3) Executed to bring God glory?
“If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever.” 1 Peter 4:11
