Update Letter - July 2013

Written by Ben: 

For in it (the Gospel) the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17

Apart from faith Christianity is simply a religion.

God has given Jes and me the opportunity to have our faith tested over the past couple of weeks. While my first response was to struggle with this test and to begin to doubt, God opened my eyes to recognize this doubt was an attack from our enemy. What God has taught me through this is that living life fully dependent on Him is really the only way to experience the full abundant life He desires me to have. As long as I have a backup plan I am still able to be self-reliant, but when there is no “plan B” and my reliance is only on my Father, that is living life as a child of the King! Sadly, many believers never experience that depth of reliance on God and instead cling to themselves to manage the difficulties of life. Without releasing control we miss the blessings of experiencing the reality of God’s care, provision, and personal love in our lives.

Is it possible to go through the motions of Christianity without really living by faith? When we are living the principles and ideals of Scripture without experiencing the relational aspect of faith we are missing the whole point of what it means to follow Christ. Faith is essential because that is what builds our relationship with the Father. I can keep the rules without relying on God. This is why trials are such a gift! Each time God allows us to experience the end of ourselves it is an opportunity for us to cry out to Him in faith as our only means of getting through! Rules do not help us in those moments of crisis. God is much more concerned with your heart of dependence on Him than He is on your fulfillment of Christian duty. Let go of your “Plan B” and wait to see how God will show up!

What in your life is God asking you to trust Him alone with right now? We would love to hear so we can partner with you in prayer!  

“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.” Galatians 5:6

With MUCH love and joy!
Ben and Jes Thacker