Faith one of most valuable things person can possess

Have you ever realized that history repeats itself? It’s a concept as old as time. It can be traced as far back as can be pursued.

An undeniable result of transgression is that it never happens in isolation. The fact that, “one does as he or she pleases, as long as it does not hurt someone else,” is impossible to achieve. Wrongdoing is not an island.

The concept applies to every walk of life, whether it is in the highest-ranking office or the common working man. Every day you and I read or hear about crime, wars, double standards and every kind of dishonesty.

So more than ever, we need to guard our faith. It is more precious than gold. It must be guarded at all costs because we live in a world that continually seeks to erode it.

Immorality is boldly flaunted with no hint of shame. Sheer blasphemy and irreverence for God are shown daily on TV. Profanity prevails. Is there an outright conspiracy to present sin as the normal way to behave?

I make no apologies or excuses. My faith is far too precious to me to have it lessened or demeaned. It bothers me immensely for anyone or anything to try to disturb it. I must guard my faith for it seems the world takes pot shots at faith-filled people. I am reminded of Hebrews 11:6: “But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (KJV).

We are in a fight to preserve and protect our faith. Faith-filled people keep their eyes on Jesus. They have his word in their hearts. They know where they are going, and they will not bend an ear to the cries of doubt and unbelief.

People of faith do not give up, back up, let up or shut up about their faith. When it comes to the end of life, people of faith are spiritual millionaires. Their counterparts are spiritually bankrupt. Growing and maturing in Christ is the goal of the Christian.

The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 3:13-14, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (KJV).

Show me a faith-filled person and I will show you an individual who has made peace with God.

In Jesus we have a love that never ends, a soul that never dies, a peace that passes all understanding, a joy that is never ending, a hope that is never disappointed, a light that shines forever, a wisdom that can never be erased, a beauty that can never be changed, resources that are never ending, righteousness in him and an assured destiny.

“We live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV). Faith will get you through the darkest night. Faith will give you peace in a troubled world. Faith believes even in the most difficult situations. Faith gives you assurance when you breathe your last breath. Without faith, what is left?

Your faith is a treasure of immeasurable wealth. Nurture it. Cherish it. Mature in it.

Remember that with Jesus you have a love that can never be taken away and a joy that lasts forever. It is always too soon to quit. Quitters never win and winners never lose.

Keep and guard your faith. It is a life and death possession.

Portales resident Joan Clayton is a retired teacher and published author. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]