Increasing in Faith: Principles and Activation

Introduction:
Faith is the cornerstone of the Christian life. It is by faith that we are saved, by faith that we walk, and by faith that we grow closer to God. However, faith is not static; it is meant to increase. As Christians, we are called to cultivate our faith, to deepen our trust in God, and to live out our faith in a way that reflects our relationship with Him.

I. The Importance of Increasing in Faith

The Bible emphasizes the importance of growing in faith. In 2 Thessalonians 1:3, Paul commends the Thessalonians, saying, “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” Here, Paul acknowledges that faith is not just a one-time event but a dynamic and growing aspect of the Christian life.

Faith is essential for living a life that pleases God. Hebrews 11:6 states, “And without faith, it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” To walk in God’s will and fulfill His purpose for our lives, we must have faith that is continually increasing.

II. Principles for Increasing in Faith

1. Hearing and Obeying God’s Word:
   Romans 10:17 says, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” To increase in faith, we must immerse ourselves in God’s Word. The more we hear, meditate, and act on God’s Word, the more our faith will grow. Faith grows by hearing, but it is perfected by obedience.
2. Prayer and Communion with God:
   Jude 1:20 encourages us to “build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit.” Prayer is a powerful tool for increasing faith. Through prayer, we connect with God, express our dependence on Him, and receive the strength to trust Him more. Jesus often withdrew to pray, setting an example of how vital prayer is to a life of faith (Luke 5:16).
3. Testing and Trials:
   James 1:2-4 teaches, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Trials are not to be feared but embraced as opportunities for our faith to be tested and strengthened. Through trials, we learn to rely on God more deeply and our faith matures.
4. Fellowship with Believers:
   Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Fellowship with other believers encourages and strengthens our faith. We are reminded of God’s faithfulness through the testimonies of others, and we are built up as we share in each other’s journeys.

III. Activating Increased Faith

1. Declare God’s Promises:
   God’s Word is full of promises that we can stand on. Abraham is a prime example of someone who activated increased faith by believing in God’s promises. Romans 4:20-21 says, “No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised.” Like Abraham, we must declare God’s promises over our lives and believe that He will fulfill them.
2. Step Out in Faith:
   To activate increased faith, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones and trust God in new ways. Peter exemplified this when he walked on water. In Matthew 14:28-29, Peter said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus responded, “Come.” Peter’s faith grew as he stepped out of the boat and walked toward Jesus, even though the circumstances were intimidating.
3. Persevere in Faith:
   The woman with the issue of blood demonstrated perseverance in faith. In Mark 5:25-34, despite her condition and the crowd, she believed that if she could just touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, she would be healed. Her faith was activated by her persistence, and Jesus responded, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease” (Mark 5:34).
4. Surround Yourself with Faith-Builders:
   The company we keep influences our faith. Consider the story of the four friends who brought a paralytic to Jesus in Mark 2:1-12. Their faith was so strong that they were willing to remove the roof of the house to get their friend to Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus forgave the man’s sins and healed him. Surrounding ourselves with people of faith can help us to activate and increase our own faith.

Conclusion:

Increasing in faith is essential for every believer. It allows us to draw closer to God, experience His power, and fulfill His purposes for our lives. By hearing and obeying God’s Word, engaging in prayer, embracing trials, and fellowshipping with other believers, we can cultivate a faith that continually grows. To activate increased faith, we must declare God’s promises, step out in faith, persevere, and surround ourselves with those who encourage our faith. May we, like Abraham, Peter, and the woman with the issue of blood, grow in faith and trust God for greater things.