2 Peter 1:5 ; 1 John 5:4; Hebrews 11:6

“For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises, make every effort] in [exercising] your faith to, develop moral excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, understanding)” – AMP.

“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”.

This title conjures in our mind the physical act of building body muscles as you would see in a gym or other workout places. The result of such endeavors are phenomenal – fitness trainers will tell you that physical exercise increases muscle strength and tone, which could in turn lead to healthier bones.

However, the muscle being referred to in this article is the ‘faith muscle’. Our faith can be likened to the physical muscles (in our body) which require consistent exercise for growth and strength.

The truth is that we all have a measure of faith, whether we realize it or not. For instance, when we take a pill (be it a vitamin or drug), we are not necessarily privy to how it was made; the only clue we have with regards to the composition is the little blurb written on the label of the bottle. Regardless, we believe enough in that pill to swallow it, hoping it will work as intended or described – this is nothing but faith! Sadly though, we place our faith in everything else except in God and HIS word.

Secondly, when we walk into a room and sit on a chair – we have demonstrated some faith that the chair is able to hold our weight; otherwise we would not sit on it. So (unconsciously), we display a level of faith – in different things – on a daily basis. But when it comes to taking God at HIS word – that is – putting our faith in HIM, we shy away because it is risky, or illogical, or whatever the case may be.

Let me say this in plain words – faith in anything is risky! Faith requires a level of risk, otherwise it is not faith. Given the examples above – taking the pill was risky, because you didn’t know if it actually contains the ingredient stated on the label! Sitting on that chair was risky – what if it couldn’t hold your weight; you run the risk of breaking your hips!

Folks, if we are willing to put our faith in mundane, ephemeral, trivial things, without a second thought; then we must be more willing to put our faith in God who is enduring, everlasting, eternal, perpetual, omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent!

When situations arise, and we choose to exercise our faith in God’s word, our faith muscle gets stronger! Then we are encouraged to trust HIM yet again, and the faith muscle gets even stronger than before! As this cycle continues, our faith muscle becomes eventually toned, firm, and unshakable!

So when confronted with the challenges of life, do not be quick to seek self-made solutions. Put your faith in God (and His Word), and seize the opportunity to exercise your faith muscles for strength and spiritual growth!