Front End Faith or Back End Believer? (Part One –Why?)
During the course of our spiritual journey to intentional holiness, each of us has probably experienced the peace that comes after conflict or problems. We trust that God is in control and that “all things work together for good…”. Usually, however that peace comes at a price. We wrestle with problems and trials until finally in a moment of desperation; we lay it down and surrender it to God. What happens at that point of surrender is the miracle of peace that comes when we just “let it go and let God provide the answers and solutions. Most of us have probably reached or are getting close to being pretty good at “Back End Believing”.
What if? What if? What if…
…I could have peace about things before they happen? Joy in the midst of affliction? Peace that passes understanding? And…have it all the time!
What if my joy and faith were always on the “Front End” of crisis instead of the “Back End” of coming through it? This would be a Radical Spiritual Breakthrough!
Truly, this must be a stretch for most of us – “having peace and joy before and through our crisis not just when we are sure God has managed it to our benefit when we finally get through it”. Not only is it possible, this is the abundant life that God wants for his children. He has told us so in his Word. When Godly people are completely surrendered, they completely trust. That trust is based on a heart and intellectual knowledge that we serve an Omniscient God who is able to do anything, a loving Father who delights in our joy, and a merciful Savior who has made the greatest sacrifice just for each of us! I’m not sure about you, but I have experienced that miraculous peace and joy that “passes all understanding” and I want it everyday, every moment; before – during – after in any affliction that comes into my life.
Isaiah 26:3 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 48:18 Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea;
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
Romans 12:11-13 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
John 10:10 ESV The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
