Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. It is essential for walking in His ways and experiencing His promises. But how can we nurture and strengthen our faith, especially when we face trials or doubts? The Bible provides several principles to help us grow in faith. Let’s explore these steps in detail:
1. Endure Trials
James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Similarly, 1 Peter 1:6-7 emphasizes that trials refine our faith, comparing it to gold refined by fire.
Trials, hardships, and challenges are inevitable in life. However, these trials are not meant to destroy us but to purify and strengthen us. They are like fire that removes impurities from silver, as illustrated in Malachi 3:3, which says, “He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness.”
When a silversmith refines silver, he keeps putting it on fire until that silver reflects his image. In the same way, God allows us to go through the fire of trials to remove impurities and strengthen our faith until we reflect His image. Trials teach us endurance, which is the key to maturing and growing in faith. Therefore, embrace trials as opportunities to increase your faith.
2. Hearing and Receiving the Word
Romans 10:17 teaches us that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” The Word of God is the only true source of faith. When you hear and receive God’s Word, whether it’s about healing, deliverance, or provision, it produces faith within you.
Receiving the Word means more than just reading or hearing it; it means having the revelation of It, making It part of your spirit and letting it transform your soul. As you take in God’s Word, you begin to know what God knows, think as God thinks, and act as God acts. It molds you into His likeness and strengthens your faith in Him.
To increase your faith, prioritize giving time in the Bible. Read, study, and meditate on His promises. Listen to sermons and teachings that feed your spirit. The more you saturate your mind with God’s Word, the more your faith grows.
3. Fellowship with Faith-Filled People
Jude 1:20-22 encourages us to “build each other up in your most holy faith.” Faith is contagious. When you surround yourself with people who are filled with faith, their attitudes and trust in God will influence you.
Attending church or being part of a faith-filled community helps you connect with others who can encourage and strengthen your walk with God. Watching sermons online can be beneficial, but there’s a unique power in being physically present with fellow believers. Real fellowship stirs our hearts, challenges us to grow, and uplifts our spirits. Your presence in attending fellowship can strengthen your brothers and sisters while their presence can strengthen you too.
Yes, you may have been hurt by some fellowships or churches in the past, but don’t let that keep you isolated. Seek out true fellowships with believers who walk by faith, and your faith will increase as well.
4. Seek, Ask, and Knock
In Acts 16:4-5, it says the churches were “strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers” because they remained in the apostles’ doctrine. Similarly, Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7 to “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”
When you are confused or unsure, your faith can become weak. That’s why it’s important to seek the truth, ask for guidance, and knock for understanding to the Lord. When you remain grounded in sound doctrine, like the doctrine of the Apostles, you will gain clarity, and your faith will be strengthened. Don’t hesitate to ask God for wisdom when you face confusion or doubt. Keep seeking, and God will reveal His truths to you.
5. Keep Your Conscience Clean
Hebrews 10:19-22 highlights the importance of having a clear conscience: “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”
A guilty conscience can be a major obstacle to faith. When we harbor guilt, unforgiveness, or unrepentant sin, it becomes difficult to fully trust God. This is why it is crucial to keep your conscience clean. Apologize when you’ve wronged someone, forgive those who have wronged you, and repent when you’ve sinned.
When your conscience is clean, you can approach God with confidence, knowing that nothing stands between you and Him. This purity of heart allows your faith to grow unhindered.
6. Act on Your Faith
James 2:14-17 reminds us that “faith without work is dead.” Faith is not just believing in God; it is acting on that belief. True faith manifests itself in obedience to God’s Word. It’s not enough to say you believe—you must live it out in your actions.
When you hear God’s Word and obey it, your faith comes alive. This is why the Bible encourages us to do good deeds, not as a way of earning salvation, but as a reflection of our living faith. The more you act on your faith, the stronger it becomes.
Conclusion: Faith is a Journey of Growth
Increasing your faith is a process that involves trials, receiving God’s Word, fellowship, seeking truth, maintaining a clean conscience, and acting on your beliefs. Each step plays a vital role in developing a mature and steadfast faith.
Just as physical exercise strengthens muscles, spiritual disciplines strengthen faith. As you endure trials, saturate your mind with God’s Word, surround yourself with faithful believers, seek truth, maintain a clear conscience, and live out your faith, you will see your trust in God grow exponentially.
Faith should not remain stagnant; it is meant to grow. And as you walk through these principles, you’ll find yourself not just believing in God but trusting Him in every aspect of your life. Through this journey, your faith will be refined, purified, and strengthened, bringing you closer to God and His purposes for your life. Until you fully reflect His image and likeness.
More Stories
THE GOD WHO DWELLS IN ETERNITY
THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE SOUL
SEEK THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND