Wednesday, 17 June 2009
Walking by Faith
On Sunday, the sermon was very inspiring and really spoke to me. It was based upon 2 Corinthians 5, verse 7, which the New Internation Version Bible translates: "We live by faith, not by sight." The King James version which was used, however, words it slightly differently: "For we walk by faith, not by sight." Both, of course, mean the same thing, but the King James version is just a little bit more poetic, and allowed the sermon to reach me in a way that the New Internation Version wouldn't have.
The illustration was given of walking along an unfamiliar path alone, having no idea where it leads. If we walk "by sight" we might worry about where we are going and look around for signs of where we are or where to go next. However, if we walk "by faith" we know we are not alone - Christ is with us every step of the way and there is no need to fear what is around the corner.
This reminded me of how I used to regularly go for walks by myself, exploring places I did not know very well. I always wanted to know where footpaths led to, and I loved walking along them to discover the answer for myself. Yes, I used to feel some doubts about whether I'd be able to find my way back or who I might meet along the way, but this could not overcome my desire to explore so I would just keep going!
I haven't done that in a long time, and I think I'm finding it harder to walk by faith these days, too. Lately I've been worrying far too much! I concentrate too hard on what I know or see, and not enough on what God wants. Back in the days when I'd go walking by myself, I trusted entirely that God was with me and would keep me safe. I also trusted that the path had to lead somewhere (although it didn't always!), and this reminds me now of how God's path for me will lead me where He wants me to be.
I need to find new paths to explore. I think the act of exploring is useful as a reminder of God's presence, as well as of God's beautiful Creation. Perhaps you might like to try it - if not by yourself, with a partner or some friends? I've always found it very enriching and I wonder now why I haven't gone exploring in so long! Next time I get worries or doubts, I'm going to remind myself of past explorations and try to hear what God is saying to me. I hope that will help me to "live by faith, not by sight" again.
God bless you all!
