We can say we believe something, but believing in our minds and believing in our hearts are two different things. Intellectual knowledge is just the beginning of a deeper knowledge involving the heart; it simply scratches the surface. Having peace of mind concerning what we say we believe, and the ability to rest in that peace, is the evidence of authentic faith. We can enter into God’s rest without falling short of it when we accept the Gospel of Grace in faith.
This type of rest doesn’t mean inactivity, but rather having the confidence to allow ourselves to rest in God’s promises even in the midst of our works of faith. These promises are based on the finished works of Jesus, and they concern our prosperity, our finances, our health, and everything else that touches our lives. There’s a difference between works of faith and works of self-effort. God doesn’t help those who help themselves; He helps those believe they can do all things through the one who strengthens them.
There are no limits with God, so we don’t need to limit ourselves through unbelief. All things are possible to them who believe. We benefit from ceasing all our striving and simply sitting, resting, and letting God speak directly to us. Letting Him minister to us the way Jesus ministered to Mary while she sat at His feet strengthens our faith.
Getting lost in self-effort traps us in self-centeredness and moves us out of our position to receive from God. Our faith in Him moves us back into position. It does no good boasting about how we saved ourselves from dire consequences through our own works, when we’re actually saved by the gift of grace through faith. Genuine faith keeps us at rest, no matter what’s happening in any area of our lives.
Prayer:
God, completely trusting in what You say to us, with no room for doubt, brings us to the place of true rest in Your Son. Your Word gives us peace of mind in Him that we can’t find in ourselves. Thank You for giving us the faith of Christ to lean on when our faith is weak. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scriptures:
- Hebrews 4:1-11, NKJV
- Philippians 4:13
- Mark 9:23
- Luke 10:38-42
- Ephesians 2:8, 9