Faith in God Is Simple, Not Complicated

Aug 16

Aug 16 Faith in God Is Simple, Not Complicated

Devos and Studies, Psalms Devos_Studies, God's Word

Simple, Not Complicated

I prefer simple to complicated. Of course, relationships and life can often be complicated. But the truth is, we often contribute to what makes it complicated. This is a recurring pattern I notice with people, faith, and God.

I understand the idea of faith and belief in God may seem complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. You’ve probably heard of people “deconstructing” their faith for one reason or another. Perhaps you’ve struggled with the existence of God and the nature of faith.

I think most of this “deconstruction” stems from people trying to understand faith in God as if it’s an advanced math problem. But faith in God is simple, not complicated. It’s spiritual in nature, not a mathematical equation.

I’m thankful my “deconstructing” of faith in God and the Christian faith came before I came to a full and genuine trust in God. I searched through various religions and philosophies, while I also examined Christianity and the Bible. I asked a lot of questions along the way.

Jesus said we need to become like children to enter God’s Kingdom—we are to be childlike in our faith (Matthew 18:1-5). When I came to realize the simplicity of faith in God, my struggle to understand faith was resolved.

I received God’s acceptance and approval in my life, which brought a sense of well-being in my soul. Children long for and need this from parents, siblings, and grandparents. When they don't receive it from family, they look to others for it.

Faith is about trust in God. It is personal and relational, not an abstract phenomenon. There's both a sense of peace and joy when we experience God’s acceptance and approval (Matthew 3:17; Ephesians 1:6 NJKV). This is what comes to mind for me when I read Psalm 100.

Scripture

A psalm of thanksgiving.
Shout happily to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord cheerfully.
Come into his presence with a joyful song.
Realize that the Lord alone is God.
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people and the sheep in his care. [vss 1-3]
Enter his gates with a song of thanksgiving.
Come into his courtyards with a song of praise.
Give thanks to him; praise his name.
The Lord is good. His mercy endures forever.
His faithfulness endures throughout every generation. [vss 4-5]
(Psalm 100:1-5 GW) [Context– Psalm 100]

Psalm 100

Reflections and Insights

This is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving (see Psalms Study Guide below). It's a song of celebration and acknowledgment. This psalm was written to sing while bringing a sacrifice, or an offering of thanksgiving into the temple.

Before the Lord Jesus came and opened a new way to God's presence, the temple represented heaven on earth for God's people. Now, we can know God's acceptance and approval and enter His presence by faith.

The expressions of praise and thanksgiving acknowledge who God is and His blessing for those who trust in Him. It is God who created us. We didn't create ourselves. There are no "self-made" men or women in God's kingdom.

The Lord is our Shepherd, and we are the flock under His care. It is a very personal relationship of trust and respect.

Just like children who are confident of their acceptance and approval within their family, we are assured of God's goodness, mercy, and faithfulness as we confidently enter His presence. This brings a settling peace in our hearts and minds and fills us with overflowing joy!

Reflection—

Psalm 100 is a quick read and a great way to begin each day! Have you experienced God's peace and joy as you offer praise and thanks to Him? If not, try reading Psalm 100 frequently.

Prayer Focus—

When you find yourself struggling to understand God or have faith in Him, simply ask the Lord to remind you of the childlike faith He desires to see in us. Pray and read through Psalm 100, asking the Lord to confirm the truth by His Spirit to your heart and mind.

Would you like a free study guide for your study of Psalms?

Click the link for a free Psalms Study Guide

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