BASICS OF FAITH

Faith 101 should be confidence in the love of God.

1 John 3:1  Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us that we should be called the children of God!

Hebrews 11:6  Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him

  God is constantly speaking to us.  Whether through His word, reading the Bible, that still small voice from within, our friends and family, or even that loud-mouthed preacher!  God loves us and want us to "get it".

We have always been told to "don't be a doubting Thomas".  This is true.  Yet Jesus loved Thomas so much (John 20:24-29).  That even after 8 days after speaking his doubts and 8 days of fellowshipping with the other disciples, Jesus shows up to allow Thomas to see Him, to touch and feel Him, and even performed other signs and wonders in his presence.  Jesus wanted to take all his doubts away. 

Yes, the scripture is true that we must have faith to please God.  At the same time, we should not beat ourselves up.  We need to realize that God is in the business of continuing education.  He and His Word are ever present to help us grow in faith.

Romans 10:17  Faith comes by hearing, and by hearing the Word of God.

God is good.  All the time God is good.

DANIEL

IT'S NOT ABOUT A FIERY FURNACE OR A LION'S DEN

  It is about recognizing that God is God.   Daniel 6:26  "For he IS the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom WILL NOT be destroyed, his dominion will never end."  and yes vs 27 "He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth...."

  Down through the ages and still today, the anti-God (anti-Christ) spirit continues and will continue til Jesus comes.  In Daniel this spirit would rise up making laws against worshipping God.  Well.... just as Daniel did, when this happens we must continue to pray, give thanks, ask God's help and trust in (have faith in) our God, our Deliverer.