EXERCISE YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST (2)

Welcome to the second edition of this faith series. It is our duty in this weekly release to give out words of encouragement, and educate you more on the numerous possibilities in Christ Jesus.

In the first edition of this teaching, published about a year ago, we established the fact that as a believer, you have privileges. Your origin has changed and you now belong to the family of God.
This gives you legal impetus to demand and watch it done, because you are no longer a slave to sin, but an heir of salvation.

This demand is made in prayers. So, we shall consider the role of prayer in exercising your faith in Christ, our Lord.

The Threat (Acts 3:4)
One day, Peter and John healed a cripple at the Beautiful Gate, who asked for alms as the duo went to pray. Peter afterwards gave a brief sermon to the people who watched them in amazement.

As usual, the priests and elders had them arrested. The rulers threatened the duo to not preach in that name any longer.

Lifted Voices
"And being let go, they went to their own company and reported all that the chief priest and elders had said unto them. And when they heard that, they lifted up their voices to God with one accord, and said 'Lord, thou art God...' " (Acts 4:23–24)

This happened not two or three days after, but upon their return. They lifted their voices to exercise their faith in the One who gave them the task to preach!

This inspired me a lot and I hope it inspires you too. Are you threatened? Do not keep quiet. If you cannot talk to your 'threat', then talk to God in prayers. Lift your voice!

Lord, Thou Art God!
This is the anchor of this faith we talk about! Lord, thou art God. This is our confidence, our hope, our strength! This is what gave them the assurance –the Lordship and sovereignty of Christ.

Remember, Peter told the Council in verse 19 that they (Peter and John) had no option than to obey God rather than men. This God whom they obeyed, they also believed He was able.

He is the only true God. No one, nothing else is. Your problems are not. Whatever may threaten you is not God. So, whenever you are hit, retreat to the One who is above your fears and terror. He is Jesus Christ!

From Lifted Voices to 'Filled With The Holy Ghost'
God heard their voices and sent a reply instantly, and their threats were rolled away. Verse 31 reports that when they prayed, the whole place where they gathered shook, and consequently, they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Then, they spoke the Word of God with boldness.

Of course, that is why they prayed –for boldness, because they were resolute on witnessing.

Hey friend, lift your voice today in your closet, in your room, anywhere. Talk to God. Table the matter before Him. Exercise your faith. Tell Him like the disciples said, 'Lord, thou art God'. He will answer like He always does.
Read similar article "Not Just a God, But a Father (2)" on Goodlife Writes. God bless you.

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