INTRODUCTION

In the remaining Study Guides of The Disciple’s Toolkit, you will explore essential steps to follow in your daily life, ensuring success in your spiritual journey. Beginning your life in Christ is important, as discussed in the previous Study Guide, but it is equally crucial to complete your journey in Christ.

Hebrews 3:14 says:

“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end.”

Any athlete knows that success in a race depends on what happens between the start and finish lines. Similarly, your journey in Christ requires a strong start, perseverance, and a solid finish.

While you may have covered some of these principles in the Study for Approval module, revisiting them is beneficial. Over time, we may overlook small but essential steps due to life’s busyness. Yet it is these small things that determine the outcome of our race. Solomon highlights the significance of these details and warns of the consequences of neglect, which can lead to a ruined life.

Song of Solomon 2:15 says:

“Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.”

It is often said that people allow small things to deprive them of big opportunities. This Study Guide will tackle some of those easily overlooked details, emphasising their importance in ensuring you run your race well and finish strong.

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BIBLE READING

The experience of being born again marks just the beginning of your spiritual journey. To sustain this experience, you need to incorporate certain basics into your daily life. Just as you nourish your physical body with food, water, and air, your spiritual life also needs daily sustenance for health and growth in Christ Jesus. Daily Bible reading is one vital requirement for this.

Why Should You Read Your Bible?

Reading the Bible provides instructions for living your Christian life and guides you in running your race well. Have you ever tried assembling something without reading the directions? While you might figure out most of it, instructions are often crucial for success. Considering how destructive your life was before Christ, understanding God’s instructions for your life going forward becomes even more vital.

In the Old Testament, King Solomon recognised his need for guidance from God, seeing himself as a little child, much like we do when we begin our Christian journey.

1 Kings 3:7 says:

“And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.”

God promised Solomon wisdom and understanding, instructing him to walk in His ways and keep His statutes and commandments.

1 Kings 3:14 says:

“And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days.”

God is impartial; He extends the same promise to you. But how could Solomon keep God’s commandments? Firstly, he had to read them. If you seek God’s blessings in your life, you must do the same. God’s commandments and instructions are found in His Word, the Bible.

Psalm 119:104–105 says:

“Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

God’s Word serves as a light and a lamp, guiding us in how to live in this present world and steering us away from every false way.

The Role of Bible Reading in Resisting Temptation

In the book of Hebrews, Paul warns us that sin, or the temptation to disobey God, surrounds us, using Israel in the wilderness as the example. Bible reading is what teaches us how to resist the temptations of the devil. David also understood this, as seen in the book of Psalms.

Psalm 119:11 says:

“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

Reading and obeying God’s Word will prevent you from sinning. As you become acquainted with God’s Word, you will discern the lies of the devil. When Jesus faced temptation from Satan, He resisted by quoting Scripture, saying, it is written. And where was it written? In the Bible.

What If I Do Not Understand the Bible?

Although this topic was covered in detail in the first module, it is beneficial to revisit it and explore additional ways to understand God’s Word. Some people find reading the Bible challenging or even boring. However, consider Bible reading as a personal letter from God to you. Imagine the Creator of the universe wanting to communicate with you personally.

As discussed in the previous module, Understanding the Bible, God has preserved a special book for you, containing His will, purpose, and plans for your life. Yes, there are scriptures that are difficult to understand, but you can overcome this through study and guidance.

Seeking Guidance

So, how can you comprehend what you read and study? Seeking guidance from someone in the Church of God can help steer you in the right direction. Attending all meetings aligns with God’s plan for you.

Hebrews 10:25 says:

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

You can attend Sunday school, Bible study meetings, and prayer gatherings where ministers and teachers can explain and teach from God’s Word. However, it is important to exercise caution and ensure that what you are being taught aligns with the Word of God.

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BIBLE READING (CONTINUED): COMMUNICATION AND PRACTICAL HABITS

Communication with God

The most effective way to understand your Bible is to communicate with the Author directly.

Jeremiah 17:7 says:

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.”

If you receive a letter or message that you do not understand, the best course of action is to ask the author for clarification. Similarly, with the Bible, though it was written by more than forty men, it has only one Author, God. Ask God to help you understand His Word.

Different Learning Styles

It is important to recognise that everyone learns differently. Visual learners may find it helpful to highlight favourite verses or take notes. Others may prefer a Bible reading plan that keeps them on track daily. Some find value in listening to audio Bibles while following along in a physical or digital Bible. The key is to find a method that works for you and commit to it.

What Should I Read?

There are various approaches to Bible reading. Daily reading plans cover the entire Bible within a specific timeframe. Chronological Bible reading reads events in the order they occurred, using a Chronological Bible. Topical study explores all the scriptures related to a subject, using resources like the Thompson Chain Bible. The key is to find a method that suits your needs and commit to it.

If you have never read the Bible before, it is recommended to start with the Gospels. These four books explain the plan of salvation and the sacrifice God’s Son made for our sins. You could also consider reading the epistles of John or Paul’s letter to the Colossians. Starting with more challenging books like Leviticus or Numbers may feel overwhelming, so begin with books that explain the basics of salvation. If unsure, ask God for guidance on what to read.

How Often and When Should I Read the Bible?

You might wonder how often you should read the Bible. Think of it like a meal. Just as you need daily food to nourish your body, your spirit needs daily nourishment from God’s Word.

Job 23:12 says:

“Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.”

Some people claim to be Christians but only read their Bibles at church. Is that enough? No. You need daily spiritual direction to live a life pleasing to God. The Bereans were commended for their daily Bible study.

Acts 17:11 says:

“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

When is the best time to read the Bible? David found great value in seeking God early in the morning.

Psalm 63:1 says:

“God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee.”

Starting your day by reading God’s Word provides strength and guidance for whatever you may face. Reading early helps you align your heart with God from the start of the day. Some recommend reading a chapter of Proverbs each morning since there is a chapter for each day of the month.

Using Technology for Bible Reading

With modern technology, Bible apps make it easy to access God’s Word anywhere. Many apps offer free versions of the King James Version, or other translations like the Literal Version and Young’s Literal Translation. These apps also provide free resources like Strong’s Concordance and the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge for in-depth study. Whether you are on the go or taking a break, having the Bible readily available allows you to read whenever you find a moment.

Lamentations 3:22–23 says:

“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

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BIBLE STUDY

The Study for Approval module laid the foundation for Bible study, but it is important to revisit and encourage the reading and study of God’s Word. One question you might have is whether Bible study is different from Bible reading.

Is Studying the Bible Different from Reading the Bible?

Daily Bible reading is crucial for a disciple of Jesus Christ. Bible reading provides spiritual strength and daily guidance to keep you in God’s love and care. Bible study, though similar to reading, helps you understand deeper truths and doctrines. God desires to share these with you to foster continual spiritual growth and to establish you in the faith. In a time of rampant false teaching by false prophets and teachers, it is essential to study your Bible. You must learn how to delve into God’s Word to uncover pearls of wisdom, especially when many are confused and double-minded.

James 1:5–8 says:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”

Study can be defined as the pursuit of knowledge through reading, observing, and researching. It involves giving careful thought and examination to what is being read and studied. Bible study differs from Bible reading in that it requires more time and effort, but it is essential to truly understand God’s Word. Both are necessary, and one does not replace the other.

Preparations for Bible Study

Before beginning a Bible study, you will need some tools, including a Bible, a notebook, a concordance, and a Bible dictionary. However, the greatest aid to studying the Bible is the Author Himself, God. As covered in the first module, Study for Approval, you have received the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you to guide and reveal all things to you.

When Jesus spoke in parables, He made this promise to His disciples.

Luke 8:10 says:

“And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.”

The Holy Spirit will assist and guide you in your studies, leading you to other scriptures to help you understand difficult verses and obscure sayings. However, you must demonstrate a hunger and thirst to know God’s truth.

Matthew 5:6 says:

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”

The Necessity of Bible Study

It is crucial to emphasise that Bible study is not optional. It is a directive from God and a condition of His approval of you.

2 Timothy 2:15 says:

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

The Literal Version phrases it this way: give diligence to present yourself approved to God, a workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth. Diligence is key in Bible study. Without diligence, there is no desire, and without desire, there is no life. Bible study, combined with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, will equip you with the knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual discernment needed to grow in your faith and walk in obedience to God.

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BIBLE STUDY (CONTINUED): KNOWING WHAT TO STUDY

How to Know What to Study

With so many subjects to explore in the Bible, you may wonder where to begin your study. A helpful approach is to ask God to guide you in your study. During your daily Bible reading, God may bring a verse, thought, or subject to your attention, prompting you to think and meditate on it.

Additionally, as you work through your COGMA Study Guide, you may develop an interest in a specific topic that invites deeper exploration. Many congregations gather weekly to study the Study Guides in greater depth, providing an opportunity to examine and discuss the topics in a group setting. You may also wish to explore sermons or teachings by your pastor or minister during weekly meetings. Like the Bereans, who examined what Paul and others taught to ensure it aligned with Scripture, you can study to confirm the teachings you receive.

The Importance of Bible Study

There will be times in your life when you need to understand what God’s Word says and what it means to navigate various circumstances. The world is unstable and brings daily challenges. One day you may be on top of the mountain, and the next in the valley. The only stability you have is the Bible and our unchanging God.

James 1:17 says:

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”

When studying, remember the Golden Rule of Bible study: let the Bible interpret the Bible. Scripture is the best guide for understanding itself, and cross-referencing verses will help bring clarity.

Helping Others Through Bible Study

It is important to recognise that you are indebted to help others and guide them toward the truth of God’s Word. Paul emphasised this sense of responsibility when preaching the Gospel.

Romans 1:14 says:

“I am a debtor both to Greeks and to foreigners, both to wise, and to foolish.”

When others approach you with questions about your beliefs, you should be prepared to give them an answer. This readiness comes from studying the Bible and allowing God to speak to you through what you have read. Then, as Peter instructs us, you will be equipped to answer well.

1 Peter 3:15 says:

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”

Sharing the Gospel and Making Disciples

As a disciple of Jesus Christ, you have been called to share the Gospel and make disciples. The purpose of COGMA is to equip you to fulfil this mission, following the precious words Paul spoke to Timothy.

2 Timothy 2:2 says:

“And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

Through diligent Bible study, you will not only grow in your own faith but will also be able to teach and lead others, fulfilling the calling God has placed on your life.

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MEDITATION

One scripture that many disciples of Jesus Christ are familiar with, which references meditation, is found in the book of Joshua.

Joshua 1:8 says:

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”

What Is Meditation?

If you were to ask a cross-section of people what meditation is, you might receive a variety of answers. To Buddhists, it is a means of transforming the mind. To others, it is the cessation of thought processes or emptying the mind to enter a trance-like state. But is this what God had in mind when He commanded Joshua to meditate day and night? When we look at the Scriptures, it becomes clear that biblical meditation differs from these secular or mystical ideas.

Biblical Examples of Meditation

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of meditation. Isaac meditated while waiting to meet his bride, Rebekah.

Genesis 24:63 says:

“And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming.”

David meditated in the middle of the night.

Psalm 63:6 says:

“When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.”

God commanded Joshua to meditate day and night, as previously mentioned. In the New Testament, Paul encourages Timothy to meditate.

1 Timothy 4:15 says:

“Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.”

Meditation in a Different Context

In contrast, Jesus gave His disciples a different instruction about meditation in the context of persecution.

Luke 21:14–15 says:

“Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.”

A similar account is found in Matthew’s Gospel, where Jesus tells the disciples not to worry about what to say when delivered up.

Matthew 10:19–20 says:

“But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.”

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MEDITATION (CONTINUED): THE MEANING AND PRACTICE

The Meaning of Biblical Meditation

From these examples and others in the Bible, it is apparent that meditation is important. The biblical meaning of meditation involves thinking deeply and pondering on a verse or portion of Scripture you have read or are studying. It is akin to eating food, while you chew and swallow all food, you savour your favourite food, taking time to enjoy its taste. Similarly, meditation involves savouring God’s Word, taking the time to reflect on its meaning and application in your life.

This analogy is found in Psalm 34, when David speaks of tasting the Word.

Psalm 34:8 says:

“O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”

Another analogy often used is a cow chewing its cud. For proper digestion, a cow must chew her food twice. Almost one-third of each day is spent chewing cud, ensuring she gets all the nutrients from the food she has eaten. In the same way, meditation allows us to digest and absorb the nutrients of God’s Word deeply, allowing it to take root in our hearts and guide our actions. By meditating on Scripture, you not only reflect on God’s teachings but allow them to transform your thoughts and actions, leading to spiritual growth and prosperity in your walk with Christ.

What Should You Meditate On?

What would God have you think upon and ponder? The Bible provides the answer. In the King James Version, there are several references showing what people meditated on: the book of the law, God’s precepts, His works, His Word, God Himself, and His statutes. People thought about God’s words, His works, and God Himself. Meditation involves reflecting on God’s truth, considering His actions, and contemplating His divine nature.

How Should You Meditate?

When you first hear or read the Scriptures, it can be difficult to fully grasp all the help and encouragement they offer. By reflecting on them later, you gain a deeper understanding of their meaning. It is important to memorise Bible verses so that you can more easily reflect on them.

Psalm 119:11 says:

“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

Memorising Scripture allows you to recall and meditate on God’s Word in any situation. This continuous reflection brings the truths of God deeper into your life, helping you live according to His will.

When Should You Meditate?

Finding quiet time can seem impossible in today’s busy world. However, you will never find time to meditate, you must make time. As a disciple of Jesus Christ, you will need to exercise discipline and prioritise your time. Time is a finite resource, and nothing is more important than spending it with Jesus Christ and His Word. Without Christ, we are nothing, and it is Christ in you that gives you purpose.

God instructed Joshua to meditate day and night, implying it should be done continually. There is no specific time for meditation, you can meditate while driving, walking, or even during daily chores. It does not require physical stillness but rather a stillness within your soul.

Psalm 4:4 says:

“Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.”

To be still means to quiet the noise of everyday life in your mind and allow the thoughts of God to fill your heart.

Psalm 19:14 says:

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.”

When you face difficulties or discouragement, these are the moments to pause, be still, and meditate on God.

Psalm 46:10 says:

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

In Proverbs 23:7, Solomon tells us that we are what we think.

Proverbs 23:7 says:

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.”

And in Proverbs 4:23, we are reminded that the thoughts of our hearts influence the course of our lives.

Proverbs 4:23 says:

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

Conclusion

You have now learned the importance of reading your Bible, studying it, and meditating on it. These principles help you to reflect on what you are learning and apply it to your life. The next essential principle is faith, which is critical for sustaining and finishing the race in your Christian journey.

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FAITH

Faith is vitally important, not only for the work of salvation but also for enduring and finishing the race well.

Ephesians 2:8 says:

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”

Notice that it does not say we are saved by faith, but through faith. To finish the race, your faith must be present and continuous. Faith is not a one-time event; it is a state of being that must be sustained throughout your spiritual journey.

Keeping the Faith

At the end of his race, Paul’s testimony was that he had kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7 says:

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

Peter also tells us that the keeping power of God is conditional upon keeping the faith.

1 Peter 1:3–5 says:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”

We are preserved and able to persist in our journey through faith. This implies an ongoing, present, and continuous state of faith.

Faith and Pleasing God

The author of Hebrews affirms that pleasing God is impossible without faith.

Hebrews 11:6 says:

“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.”

In the same chapter, we find the definition of faith.

Hebrews 11:1 says:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Other translations render it this way: the Literal Version describes faith as the essence of things being hoped, the evidence of things not having been seen; and Young’s Literal Translation describes faith as a confidence of things hoped for, a conviction of matters not seen.

The Nature of Faith

Faith is the supernatural power that allows you to perceive the unseen world. With it, you can glimpse into the spiritual realm and understand God through His Word, both for this life and the one to come. Jesus emphasised the necessity of having unwavering faith.

Mark 11:22 says:

“And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.”

Faith is an unwavering belief and conviction that whatever God has promised, He will fulfil. There is no glory for God in what is achievable by human effort; faith comes into play when human abilities reach their limit.

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FAITH (CONTINUED): LIVING FAITH

Living Faith

While some may categorise faith into types, saving, enduring, healing, or delivering faith, there is truly only one kind: living faith, the faith of God. The same faith you exercised when you confessed and repented to receive salvation is the faith that will carry you through to the end. The faith that led to your spiritual rebirth is the same faith that will reunite your spirit with God when your body returns to the earth.

When you were born again, you believed without needing physical evidence that God had given you a new heart.

Ezekiel 36:26 says:

“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.”

God provided the assurance that you had become His child, confirmed by the spiritual witness in your heart.

Romans 8:16 says:

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”

This living faith that gave you a spiritual heart transplant will also empower you to endure until the end. Faith is not simply a belief; it is the assurance and conviction that God is working on your behalf and fulfilling His promises, even when you cannot see it.

True Faith in God

While many Christians claim to have faith, the question remains: do they truly possess faith in God? Do they believe His Word? Do they live by God’s Word? True faith, or living faith, involves having unwavering confidence in God’s divine plan and purpose for your life. It goes beyond acknowledging God’s ability; it means trusting that God will act and is currently working for your good.

Faith does not rely on physical evidence; it is an absolute conviction that God sees your circumstances and is actively working to address them according to His will. There is only one true faith: faith in God.

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A MAN OF FAITH

George Müller, who lived in London during the 1800s, is a powerful example of unwavering faith. Originally from Prussia, Müller relocated to England after dedicating his life to the Lord, believing it was where God wanted him to be. He declared, my whole life shall be one service for the living God.

Together with his wife, Müller established God’s Orphanage, which cared for, fed, and educated nearly ten thousand orphans. His faith was remarkable, he believed in trusting God to provide for all their needs, relying solely on prayer and never asking for help from others. One well-known story illustrates this faith. When there was no food or money for the orphans’ breakfast, Müller and the children prayed, trusting God for provision. Miraculously, a baker arrived, feeling prompted by God to bring bread, and a milkman whose cart had broken down outside the orphanage donated his milk to the children.

Müller famously wrote that faith does not operate in the realm of the possible, for there is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible, and faith begins where man’s power ends. This underscores the principle that true faith transcends human limitations, requiring complete dependence on God.

There are many stories like Müller’s, recounting men and women throughout the Gospel Day who put their trust and faith in God. Reading such accounts in books like Foxe’s Book of Martyrs can encourage and strengthen your faith. As a saying goes, faith is like seeing light with your heart when all your eyes see is darkness. Can we have faith like this today? Surely, we must.

Hebrews 11:6 says:

“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.”

Heroes of the Faith

Hebrews chapter 11 is often called the Hall of Faith or a catalogue of the Heroes of the Faith. Studying the lives of the individuals mentioned in this chapter is one of the best ways to understand what true faith entails. These heroes of faith believed in God’s promises, even though they did not witness their fulfilment during their lifetimes. Yet they were convinced of these promises and embraced them fully.

Hebrews 11:13 says:

“These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.”

Because of their faith in the promises of God, they obtained a good report through faith.

Hebrews 11:39 says:

“And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise.”

Once again, this emphasises that faith involves believing in God’s promises even when there is no visible proof or evidence.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says:

“(For we walk by faith, not by sight.)”

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FAITH AS A JOURNEY

The Apostle Paul testified that his life, his journey, was one of faith, a path marked by unwavering trust in God and His Word for his life.

Galatians 2:20 says:

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Jesus reminds true disciples that their lives must be lived according to every word of God.

Luke 4:4 says:

“And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.”

The Nature of Faith

As described in Hebrews 11:1, faith does not wait for physical proof. It is instant the moment you put your trust, hope, and belief in God. Faith is not dependent on visible evidence; it remains steadfast even in the absence of proof. Paul affirmed this to Timothy.

2 Timothy 1:12 says:

“For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”

Paul’s faith was grounded not in what he had seen or heard, but in what he deeply knew to be true in his heart. Faith is like perceiving light with your heart when all your eyes perceive is darkness. This faith, deeply rooted in trust and confidence in God, is what sustains believers on their journey through life, enabling them to endure and finish the race well.

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BUILDING YOUR FAITH

It was faith that enabled your salvation through confessing your sins and accepting Jesus Christ as your Saviour. This required you to believe without initial evidence. Faith does not stem from a mere decision to believe, it is not blind. Rather, faith is an inward assurance that originates from God; it is His gift to you.

Ephesians 2:8 says:

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”

The foundation of faith is not rooted in emotions or specific responses to prayer, it is based on a person: Jesus Christ, who is the author and finisher of our faith.

Hebrews 12:2 says:

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Jesus initiated the faith in your heart that led to salvation, and He will continue to nurture and strengthen your faith as you grow in Him.

Jude 1:20 says:

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.”

What Are Some Ways Your Faith Can Increase?

There are several ways to build and increase your faith. First, learn from the lives of those who have gone before us, studying the faithful examples in the Bible and Christian history can inspire your faith.

Second, listen to the preaching and teaching of God’s Word, for the Word of God is essential in developing faith.

Romans 10:17 says:

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

True hearing is not just listening but applying the Word to your life. Paul emphasised this when writing to the Philippians.

Philippians 4:9 says:

“Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

The writer of Hebrews stresses the importance of paying close attention to God’s Word.

Hebrews 2:1 says:

“Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.”

Third, test God’s promises by applying His Word. As you pray, seek God for guidance, provision, or healing. When He answers, your faith grows stronger. Even if your faith feels weak, remember the disciples asked Jesus to increase their faith.

Luke 17:6 says:

“And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.”

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BUILDING YOUR FAITH (CONTINUED): TESTED AND ENDURING FAITH

Your Faith Will Be Tested

Testing is an essential part of faith. When difficulties arise, do not be surprised or lose heart. Why would God allow this? Why are not my prayers being answered? Does God even care about my struggles? Consider the challenges faced by early Christians and the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. Many were persecuted, imprisoned, and even killed for their faith. In the face of such trials, they remained steadfast.

When your faith is tested, study examples from Scripture. Joseph was unjustly imprisoned but ultimately exalted. Israel was trapped at the Red Sea but delivered. Elijah fled from Jezebel, yet God sustained him.

1 Peter 4:12–13 says:

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.”

Enduring Faith

Many people have situational faith, their faith wavers depending on how well things are going in their lives. When prayers are answered and life is smooth, their faith seems strong. However, this type of faith is fragile and uncertain.

There will be moments when life seems senseless, and adversity strikes. Your faith must be founded on something more resilient than feelings and favourable outcomes, it must be grounded in Jesus Christ. Job’s faith provides a powerful example.

Job 13:15 says:

“Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.”

Enduring faith does not change even if God does not answer your prayers the way you expect. It is a faith that holds fast, grounded in unwavering trust in God’s goodness.

Conclusion: Feed Your Faith

An old saying goes, feed your faith and your doubts will starve to death. Keep reading your Bible, praying, meditating, and attending church gatherings. Faith is a gift from God, and He will sustain you through every challenge if you hold fast to it.

Hebrews 10:21–23 says:

“And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised.)”

God seeks men and women of faith to demonstrate His strength.

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SUMMARY

This Study Guide captures the core message and the critical practices it outlines for Christians to ensure success in their spiritual journey. It emphasises that while starting a life in Christ is crucial, finishing strong is equally important. Just as in a race, perseverance and adherence to biblical principles are necessary for reaching the finish line.

Key Practices for Success

Daily Bible reading is essential for spiritual nourishment, comparable to how food and water sustain the physical body. It provides guidance for living a Christian life and resisting temptation. Bible reading is portrayed as a personal communication from God, where believers are encouraged to seek understanding through study, prayer, and guidance from spiritual leaders.

Bible study goes beyond mere reading, requiring an in-depth exploration of Scriptures to uncover deeper truths. This practice is crucial for growing in faith and discerning truth in a world full of false teachings. Practical tools for effective Bible study include a Bible, notebook, and concordance, with the Holy Spirit guiding one’s understanding throughout.

Meditation on God’s Word is described as a practice of deeply pondering and reflecting on Scripture, allowing it to take root in the heart and influence one’s actions, much like savouring food or a cow chewing cud, illustrating the need to absorb and internalise the teachings of the Bible.

Faith is highlighted as essential not only for salvation but for sustaining the Christian journey. Faith must be continuous and unwavering, rooted in the belief that God is actively working for the believer’s good. The lives of biblical figures and historical Christians like George Müller illustrate the power of living faith, which transcends human limitations and relies entirely on God’s provision and promises.

Conclusion

This Study Guide concludes by encouraging believers to build and maintain their faith through regular Bible reading, prayer, and meditation. It stresses the importance of feeding one’s faith and trusting in God’s strength to sustain them through all challenges, urging them to hold fast to their profession of faith without wavering.

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