Simple truths, applied Faith

Simple truths, applied Faith
Therefore anyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24 NIV

I used to hear people use the term, "Intellectual Ascent" in reference to people that knew about the Bible, but did not believe it. I think that term makes sense also for people that know about Christ, but do not do what he says. Do you know people that participate in Bible study and church services, but they don't seem to act on anything they've learned?

“Simple Truths, Applied Faith”. That was the motto I wanted to use if I had become a pastor. I reasoned that if a person were to thrive in this life, that person would need to stick to simplicity and action oriented faith. If an idea or message is grounded in scripture and simplicity then the Holy Spirit can use that message to speak to the hearts and minds of the layman and the intellectual. In my own life, I have never learned more than when I had to apply my faith to everyday life.

I think that understanding and faith, when used together, become wisdom. Just knowing about godly things may produce frustration, thinking that God is reluctant and useless. Conversely, a person that works with no true understanding will become arrogant about their accomplishments. They will think that they have earned something with God. But I think that a balance of intellect and works produces wisdom. If the two are properly balanced in the follower of Christ, the outcome is the ability to not only withstand the tests we will face in this life, but also face the testing we must withstand when we meet God face to face.