12 Belief

John 6:47 I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. Jesus knew the hearts of those who were following him. He had provided for them out of compassion and love. He had given them signs to grow their faith, but a time came when they needed to choose whether their belief was enough or not. Whether it was the bread of heaven or bread of earth their heart craved more. He tests those who follow him, until he finds that it is only his true disciples at his side. When testing finds itself knocking on our door the easiest response is offense. Offense at being wronged by a neighbor or enemy. Offense at the church for challenge or conviction. Offense at God himself. Satan relishes the idea of getting us to believe God no longer cares or is in control. We each will find ourselves in a situation of testing in our lives. Not because God relishes hurt or suffering, but because he wants to do great things through us. Things that require our faith, our participation, our belief. He needs us to know that in our deepest hearts there is no thing that stands between us. No thing that distracts us. No thing that is our ulterior motive. Just belief. For who can win the battle against this evil world? Only those that believe that Jesus is the Son of God.