There are times when people do not believe information because they do not have faith in the source. It is sad commentary on our world today when we are so inundated with information from various sources that we are sometimes unsure what to believe. This gives rise to sometimes not believing what should be accepted. Also, because of such variant sources of messages, there is a tendency among many to merely accept what already fits their present mindset. Though exercising caution regarding what we accept and understanding the wisdom of verifying sources is good, what marks our response to the message of God?
As the writer of Hebrews urged his readers toward acceptance of God’s Word, he noted the example of the consequence of the unbelief of the past where we read. . .
“(1) Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. (2) For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened.” (Hebrews 4:1-2 ESV)
The message of God must be received with faith. To fail to believe is to lose the benefit of the message and the promises associated with it. Due to lack of faith and to disobedience, many did not enter the rest in the land to which God had been leading. (Hebrews 4:6) They were the ones who did not share in the faith of those who did listen. However, as the promise of an eternal rest remains, our hearts must remain open to God’s message lest we too fail to receive the blessing of entering. (Hebrews 4:8-11) Our hearing of God’s message is to be met with believe as we have faith in the reliability of the Divine Source.
In his first letter to the church at Thessalonica, Paul noted their response to the Gospel (good news) message where we read. . .
“(13) And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.” (1 Thessalonians 2:13 ESV)
When it comes to God, we can believe we ought to believe! May our listening to His message remain coupled with faith!
Have a great day WITH A FAITH IN GOD READY TO BELIEVE HIS EVERY WORD!
Carl
